A team of researchers has uncovered an exceptional fossil in the Yixian Formation in China. A giant scorpion, named
Jeholia longchengi, sheds new light on the ecosystems of the Early Cretaceous, where it coexisted with dinosaurs.
This specimen, measuring 4 inches (10 cm), was much larger than most other scorpions of its time, which rarely exceeded half this size, and is distinguished by unique anatomical features. It represents a rare piece in the history of arachnids, as fossils of terrestrial scorpions are uncommon, especially for this period.
A unique predator of its time
Jeholia longchengi stands out from other scorpions of its era due to its long legs and slender claws, traits that suggest a particular mode of predation. Unlike some modern scorpions, its pedipalps lacked certain protrusions, which could indicate a different hunting strategy.
The researchers, including Diying Huang from the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology, emphasize that this scorpion was much larger than most of its contemporaries. Its rounded spiracles, respiratory openings, resemble those of certain families of present-day scorpions in Asia.
This fossil, preserved in sedimentary rocks, is a major discovery. Most Mesozoic scorpions are preserved in amber, making this specimen even more valuable for understanding the evolution of these arachnids.
A key player in the Jehol ecosystem
The Jehol biota, where the fossil was discovered, was a rich and diverse ecosystem, home to dinosaurs, birds, primitive mammals, and arthropods.
Jeholia longchengi likely occupied an intermediate position in the food chain, preying on small animals while avoiding larger predators.
Scientists believe that this scorpion fed on insects, small reptiles, and possibly even juvenile mammals. At the same time, it could itself have been prey for larger vertebrates, such as certain dinosaurs or primitive birds.
This discovery, published in the journal
Science Bulletin, offers a unique window into the interactions of this ancient ecosystem. It also provides a better understanding of how scorpions adapted and thrived over millions of years.
To go further: What is the Jehol biota?
The Jehol biota is a famous fossil assemblage located in northeastern China. Dating from the Early Cretaceous, it has yielded exceptional fossils, including feathered dinosaurs, primitive birds, and mammals.
This ancient ecosystem was characterized by a great diversity of species, forming an important trophic network. Discoveries in this region have profoundly influenced our understanding of vertebrate evolution and terrestrial ecosystems.
Why are scorpion fossils so rare?
Scorpions often live in environments not conducive to fossilization, such as soil or under rocks. Their exoskeleton, although resistant, generally decomposes before it can be preserved.
Most known scorpion fossils come from amber, where they are trapped in resin. Specimens preserved in sedimentary rocks, like
Jeholia longchengi, are therefore extremely rare and valuable.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND