科学｜白亜紀の海に広がるイカの世界 / Science | The World of Squid in the Cretaceous Sea

Summary

A research team from Hokkaido University has announced a groundbreaking study revealing that the seas of the Cretaceous period were home to a large population of squid.

In a shift from the previously dominant ammonites and fish, ancient squid species that emerged around 100 million years ago underwent explosive diversification. This discovery was made possible by a uniquely developed “digital fossil excavation” technique, which allows for the 3D extraction of fossils from rocks. The research findings are published in the American scientific journal Science.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, I heard that the Cretaceous Sea was full of squid! What do you think?
Log: Yeah, it’s surprising to hear there were so many squid. I always thought fish and ammonites were the main players back then, so this is unexpected.
Chako: Right? But how did they find that out?
Log: A research team used a new technology called “digital fossil excavation.” With this technology, they can extract fossils in 3D.
Navi: This technology allows for the discovery of fossils that traditional methods couldn’t find, deepening our understanding of ancient ecosystems.
Chako: That’s amazing! We might have even more discoveries coming up!

Admin’s Note

This research represents a significant discovery that deepens our understanding of ancient ecosystems. In particular, we have gained new insights into how cephalopods diversified in the seas during the Cretaceous period, raising expectations for future studies. Additionally, advancements in digital fossil excavation techniques are revealing new possibilities in fossil research. I am continually fascinated by the evolution of various technologies and their ability to illuminate the lives of past organisms.