This 155 Million-Year-old Starfish-Like Creature can clone itself!

A 155-million-year-old starfish-like creature has been unearthed, revealing the potential for self-cloning.

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Discovered in a German limestone deposit, this creature is the only known specimen of its species.

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Named Ophiactis hex, after a supercomputer in a Terry Pratchett novel, it has six arms and can regenerate its body.

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The cloning ability allows it to produce genetically identical offspring by regenerating shattered body parts.

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This discovery is significant as the timing of the first evolution of this cloning ability is still unknown.

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Preserved specimens show all its hooked arms clearly, aiding in its study.

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While regeneration in ophiuroids is known, the evolution and geological history of this phenomenon remain mysterious.

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Cases of individuals with a regenerating body half, like this creature, are exceedingly rare in the fossil record.

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Scientists are excited about the potential insights into evolution and biology this discovery may offer.

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This finding highlights the ongoing exploration of Earth's past, uncovering the secrets of ancient life forms.

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