A groundbreaking study has unveiled the head of 'Arthropleura', a prehistoric creature that was the largest arthropod to ever roam the Earth. This car-size "millipede" lived between 346 million and 290 million years ago, during the late Paleozoic era, thriving in oxygen-rich forests.
Published on livescience.com on Wednesday, this article was written by Sierra Bouchér.
Researchers, led by palaeontologist Mickaël Lheritier from Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, discovered two well-preserved fossils in France. The fossils revealed unique stalked eyes, curved antennae, and small mandibles, showcasing a mix of centipede- and millipede-like features.
For over a century, palaeontologists have debated 'Arthropleura's' evolutionary ties. While its body resembled millipedes, the lack of a complete head left its classification uncertain. Now, Lheritier believes the fossil confirms 'Arthropleura' is most closely related to millipedes, despite its unusual traits.
James Lamsdell, a palaeontologist not involved in the study, noted that the discovery deepens our understanding of arthropod evolution. The mystery of 'Arthropleura' continues, particularly regarding its unique stalked eyes, which may hint at a semi-aquatic juvenile phase.
