Proto-mammals laid eggs, paleontologists confirm
6 hours ago
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- #paleontology
- A 250-million-year-old fossilized egg sheds light on early mammal reproduction, indicating Lystrosaurus laid soft-shelled eggs.
- Advanced synchrotron X-ray CT scanning revealed an incomplete mandibular symphysis, showing the hatchling was not fully developed and still inside its egg.
- Lystrosaurus, a key mammal ancestor, likely laid eggs with more yolk, aiding survival in harsh post-extinction climates by enabling self-sufficiency after hatching.
- The findings highlight resilience to rapid climate change, offering insights into species adaptation during ecological crises, relevant to modern biodiversity challenges.