New Monotreme Species Unearthed in Australian Opal Fields

Fossils from 100 million years ago reveal surprising diversity and evolutionary insights into ancient egg-laying mammals.

Three new monotreme species discovered in Australia's Lightning Ridge opal fields.
The fossils date back to the Cenomanian age of the Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago.
These species exhibit unique combinations of features, bridging gaps in the evolutionary history of monotremes.
The finds highlight the unexpected diversity of ancient monotremes in Australia, contrasting with today's limited species.
Lightning Ridge is a rare site for opalized fossils, providing crucial insights into monotreme evolution.