Prehistoric Insects in Amber: A New Discovery in South America
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: General Science (Biology - Evolution, Fossils; Geology - Geological Time Scale); World Geography (South America - Ecuador).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 1 (Geography/History): The concepts are relevant as illustrative examples for early life on Earth.
General Studies Paper 3 (Environment & S&T): Biodiversity and its evolution.
Key Highlights from the News
The first prehistoric insects preserved in amber were discovered in Ecuador, South America.
This discovery provides new insights into life during the period when flowering plants began to spread worldwide (Cretaceous Period).
Amber can preserve creatures from millions of years ago in their original, three-dimensional form, which differentiates it from ordinary fossils.
Such fossils greatly help scientists study the evolution of life and ancient ecosystems.
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