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Yunanozoans are extinct creatures from the early Cambrian period, about 518 million years ago. They look like worms, about 3-4 centimeters long.
Scientists have recently found evidence that Yunanozoans are the oldest known stem-like vertebrates. Stem vertebrates refer to those vertebrates that have become extinct but are very closely related to living vertebrates.
The researchers examined 127 fossil specimens and used multiple methods, such as X-ray microtomography, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.
They concluded that Yunanozoans had cellular cartilage in their pharynx, a feature considered unique to vertebrates.
The research team, including members from the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Nanjing University, published their findings in the journal Science on July 8, 2022.
(Cover image via CFP)
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