This prehistoric fish may explain how animals first walked on Earth
Researchers have examined the skull of a 380-million-year-old fish, Koharalepis jarviki, to gain insights into the transition of life from water to land. The study revealed features that suggest adaptations for living near the water's surface, including air-gulping openings and a light-sensitive organ. This fossil, discovered in Antarctica, is significant for understanding the evolutionary links between ancient fish and the first land animals.
- ▪Koharalepis jarviki is a 380-million-year-old fish closely related to the first animals that walked on land.
- ▪Advanced neutron imaging revealed adaptations in the fish's skull that may have aided in air intake and light detection.
- ▪The fossil represents the only known specimen of its kind and provides valuable insights into the evolution of vertebrates.
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| Canonical URL | https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260525000459.htm |
| Publication time | Mon, 25 May 2026 09:30:01 EDT |
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Science News from research organizations This prehistoric fish may explain how animals first walked on Earth Date: May 25, 2026 Source: Flinders University Summary: Scientists have peered inside the skull of a 380-million-year-old Antarctic fish that was closely related to the first animals to walk on land, revealing surprising clues about how life began its move out of the water. Using advanced neutron imaging, researchers discovered that Koharalepis jarviki had features suited for living near the water’s surface, including openings in its skull that may have helped it gulp air and a light-sensitive organ linked to day-night rhythms. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email FULL STORY Life reconstruction of Devonian tetrapodomorph fish Koharalepis jarviki.
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