In fossils new anomalocaris first predators on the planet, living in the early Cambrian 520 million years ago, paleontologists have discovered preserved the unrivalled imprint of the brain.

This body was pretty simple: the brains of many victims of anomalocaris were arranged much more difficult. On opening it says in the latest issue of the journal Nature.

Anomalocaris is a family of fossil marine arthropods. They are distinguished by 2 fearful appearance of growth in the front of the muzzle. Scientists still have no idea how organisms were descendants of these extinct in the middle Cambrian animals. However the adaptation of the brain newest types Lyrarapax unguispinus showed the similarity of anomalocaris with modern uniforme, or velvet worms, active terrestrial predators that feed on spiders and insects. Their size varies from 2 to 20 see

Nikofor distinguishes normal brain above the mouth, and a pair of ganglion - groups of nerve cells at the base of the optic nerve. And the same texture paleontologists have found anomalocaris. Also, frightening processes at Cambrian predators absolutely not like the antennae of modern insects and crustaceans. From among the living creatures similar processes have only velvet worms.

Paleontologists the first time managed to establish the relationship between advanced and extinct arthropods, not only by comparing the volume and form of their processes, but also defining anatomical adaptation of the brain.

The precedent that the brain of the first predator was arranged more primitive than that of his victims, has prompted research workers on the idea that the emergence of powerful predators spurred the evolution of the nervous system. Apparently, the animals have learned promptly to notice and respond to danger, and improved coordination of movements, you need during the chase.
sections: Society, World News