Jurassic Mouse-Size Mammal Lived Longer and Grew Slower Than Modern Relatives, Study Finds

During the Jurassic, small mammals lived fast but recent fossil analysis revealed mouse-size relatives lived longer and grew slower.

Researchers have recently conducted an in-depth analysis of fossilized skeletons, unveiling a remarkable discovery about the lifespan and growth patterns of a mouse-size mammal relative that thrived during the Jurassic period.

Isle of Skye Unearths Clues

The two specimens, representing the diminutive creature, were unearthed on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, providing valuable insights into the ancient ecosystem of the region.

Prolonged Lifespan and Leisurely Growth

Contrary to the rapid life cycle observed in contemporary small mammals, such as rodents and shrews, the Jurassic-era counterpart demonstrated a significantly prolonged lifespan and slower growth rate, defying the established norms of its modern descendants.

The research findings, which were published in the renowned journal Nature, depict a stark contrast to the brief existence of present-day small mammals. The ancient mouse-size mammal, known as Krusatodon kirtlingtonensis, exhibited a leisurely maturation process and an extended lifespan, challenging the perception of rapid life history traits as a standard evolutionary path for small mammals.

Ancient Habitat

The unearthed remains offer a window into the prehistoric environment of the Isle of Skye, depicting a landscape dominated by swampy lagoons bordered by dense forests, approximately 166 million years ago. This craggy island was home to diverse creatures, including sauropod dinosaurs and pterosaurs, alongside a myriad of Mesozoic mammal relatives, among which Krusatodon thrived.

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