The Baltic Airman, who is between 34 and 38 million years old, is one of the most important materials taught by fossil scientists. These rocks have preserved thousands of types of ancient arthropods, including more than 190 species of ants, which is approximately a quarter of all the fossil species known to these insects. The study of these organisms allows scientists to rebuild old ecosystems and understand the paths of development, as well as the reasons for the extinction of some groups and other prosperity.
Farid discovery in Kaliningrad
In 2024, a team from St. Petersburg University discovered a new courtyard in the Kaliningrad region, which they called “Erjevida Ontroptopolitana” in honor of the university. Researcher Dmitry Dubovikov said the discovery is a real mystery, as it is characterized by unprecedented morphological features between modern or fossil species.
Uncommon dissection
The new ant belongs to the sub -family “mono -waist dues”, but its autopsy showed unique properties. On the front edge of the Alawite lip, there are two -siking growths, a feature that was only observed in the “ants of hell” chalk. Its jaws were also narrow and sharp, closer to those of predatory wasps, indicating their ability to hunt and specialize in that. The most strange is the complete absence of simple eyes, a feature that most winged ants usually possesses navigation while flying.
My life behavior is mysterious
Scientists suggest that this species may have lived a secret life, either as a predator hiding in plant or soil cavities, or as a social parasite that seizes other ants. Uncommon jaws may be a tool for killing prey or even competitive ants. Also, the elongated body and weak eyes support the hypothesis that it rarely appeared on the surface.
The importance of discovery
It is likely that this ant has occupied a narrow environmental position, explaining its scarcity in the fossil registry. According to researchers, the discovery of “Erjeudoramma Uniptropolitana” not only expands our knowledge of the diversity of ancient ants, but also pushes us to reconsider our understanding of the development of social intrusion of these insects.
Donate discoveries
Scientists of the University of Saint Petersburg donated a sample of an ant discovered ant of the university’s excavation museum, along with a masculine model printed with 3D technology, allowing researchers and the public to see this rare discovery.
