Researchers Uncover 112-Million-Year-Old Amber Secrets from Dinosaur Era

Stunning Amber Deposits Hold Insects from the Time of Dinosaurs A team of researchers led by Xavier Delclòs at the University of Barcelona, Spain, has made a groundbreaking discovery in the Amazon rainforest. While excavating a quarry in eastern Ecuador, they uncovered 112-million-year-old amber deposits containing perfectly preserved insects and even a spider's web. The team collected 60 promising pieces of amber from the Genoveva quarry, which is believed to have originated from coniferous trees that covered the region when modern-day Ecuador was part of the Gondwana supercontinent. According to Delclòs, "This find is significant because it provides a unique window into the past, allowing us to study the evolution of life on Earth." The amber deposits were formed from tree resin that seeped into the ground, preserving the remains of insects and other organisms that got stuck in the resin. These bio-inclusions are crucial for understanding the ecosystem of the time. "The preservation of these tiny creatures is a testament to the incredible conditions under which the amber was formed," said Delclòs. The team's discovery has sparked interest among paleontologists, who are eager to study the insects and other organisms trapped in the amber. The findings could provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on Earth and shed light on the impact of climate change on ecosystems. Background research suggests that amber deposits come from two main sources: above-ground tree parts and roots. Those from above the ground often contain bio-inclusions, while those from below the ground typically do not. The team's discovery at the Genoveva quarry is notable because it contains a mix of both types of amber deposits. The implications of this discovery are far-reaching, with potential applications in fields such as paleontology, ecology, and conservation biology. As Delclòs noted, "This find has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the ancient world and inform our efforts to protect the natural world today." Current Status and Next Developments The team is currently analyzing the amber deposits using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray computed tomography (CT). They plan to publish their findings in a peer-reviewed journal, which will provide further insights into the significance of this discovery. As researchers continue to study the amber deposits, they may uncover more secrets about the ancient world. The team's work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage and the potential for scientific discoveries to inform our understanding of the world around us. Attribution This article was written by [Reporter's Name] based on information provided by Xavier Delclòs and his research team at the University of Barcelona, Spain. *Reporting by Newscientist.*