Unearthing Ancient Giants: The World's Oldest Tadpole Fossil Discovery

Scientists have discovered the world's oldest-known fossil of a giant tadpole in Argentina, dating back over 160 million years. This remarkable find surpasses previous records by 20 million years and provides insight into the evolutionary timeline of frogs. The fossil shows remarkable preservation, with details of the skeleton and soft tissues present.

In an astonishing discovery, scientists have unearthed the world's oldest-known fossil of a giant tadpole in Argentina, estimated to be over 160 million years old. This extraordinary find surpasses previous records by two decades and offers new insights into the evolutionary history of frogs.

The fossil, preserved in sandstone, includes parts of the tadpole's skull, backbone, eyes, and nerves, revealing an anatomy strikingly similar to modern tadpoles. Researchers suggest that amphibians have adhered to a survival strategy that remains unchanged for millions of years, aiding their endurance through multiple mass extinctions.

Published in the journal 'Nature,' the study highlights this ancient tadpole, about half a foot long, as a precursor to giant extinct frogs, helping to refine the timeline of frog evolution. This discovery marks a significant milestone in understanding how and when frogs began their life cycle as tadpoles.

(With inputs from agencies.)