Scientists uncover the oldest known animal-microbe symbiosis in ancient fossils
Researchers led by Zhenfei Wang of Nanjing University have identified the earliest fossil evidence of an animal-microbe partnership, pushing back the origin of symbiosis to the dawn of complex life.
The team examined early fossil records and found direct signs of a symbiotic relationship between an animal and microorganisms, a phenomenon previously undocumented in such ancient strata. This discovery suggests that inter-species cooperation emerged much earlier than scientists had thought. The work, conducted by Zhenfei Wang and colleagues at Nanjing University in China, provides new insight into the evolutionary history of complex ecosystems.
Why it matters
It shows that animal-microbe cooperation began early, influencing the evolution of complex ecosystems.
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