Fossil of Earliest Saber-Toothed Predator Discovered

A recently discovered gorgonopsian fossil in Mallorca, dated between 270 to 280 million years ago, represents the oldest known saber-toothed predator, predating dinosaurs and true mammals. This creature exhibits a mix of reptilian and mammalian traits, being warm-blooded with a body structure resembling that of a medium-sized dog, albeit without fur or ears. Researchers highlight its long, blade-like canine teeth, which indicate it was a top predator, likely feeding on ancient herbivorous reptiles. This finding sheds light on the evolutionary transition from non-mammalian synapsids to mammals, as gorgonopsians are more closely related to modern mammals than reptiles. The fossil's unique geographical context in the Mediterranean, part of the ancient supercontinent Pangea, adds to its significance, as other gorgonopsians have typically been found in polar regions. The study, published in Nature Communications, enhances our understanding of early complex life forms and their evolutionary significance.