A groundbreaking 3D scan of a rare trilobite fossil has uncovered fascinating details about the prehistoric marine creature's diet and the ancient ocean it thrived in.

Insight into the Ancient Ocean

The first-of-its-kind fossil provides a unique glimpse into the world of the ancient ocean, shedding light on the habits and behaviors of marine creatures from millions of years ago.

Scavenging at the Ocean's Bottom

The scan reveals the trilobite's fossilized stomach, offering clues about its feeding habits and survival strategies. According to the findings, trilobites like this one would scavenge for food at the bottom of the ocean, devouring whatever they could find.

A Peek at the Prehistoric Menu

The 3D scan has unveiled a fascinating menu of the trilobite's last meal. The creature had ingested shells, sea urchin-like creatures, and other small marine animals found on the sea floor.

Gut Contents Fully Itemized

In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, researchers have for the first time fully itemized the gut contents of a specific type of trilobite known as Bohemolichas incola. This rare species lived approximately 465 million years ago.

An Extinct Icon of the Ocean

Trilobites, which once numbered around 20,000 different species, played a significant role in marine ecosystems for 270 million years. However, they are now extinct.

Fueling Up Before the End

The study suggests that the trilobite examined in the research was indulging in a feeding frenzy before its demise. Clumps in its tube-like gut indicate constant feeding, supporting the theory that the creature was stuffing itself with food.

A Deadly Encounter

Evidence also suggests that scavengers attacked the trilobite before its untimely death. Scavengers targeted the soft tissues below the glabella but avoided the gut, indicating potentially noxious conditions and ongoing enzymatic activity within the trilobite.

Overall, this groundbreaking research provides valuable insights into the ancient marine ecosystem and the role of trilobites within it.