The oldest known heart is approximately 380 million years old. This remarkable discovery was made by researchers who found a beautifully preserved fossil of an ancient fish heart in the Gogo Formation in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Discovery of the World's Oldest Heart
The finding, announced on September 16, 2022, provides unprecedented insights into the evolution of vertebrate hearts. This fossilized heart belongs to an ancient fish species that swam the earth's oceans hundreds of millions of years ago. The incredible preservation of the heart allowed scientists to study its structure in detail.
The location where it was found, the Gogo Formation, is known for its exceptional fossil preservation, which has provided valuable specimens for paleontological research. The fact that a soft tissue like a heart could be so well-preserved over millions of years is a rare and significant scientific event.
The study of this ancient heart is helping scientists to understand how these vital organs have developed and changed through evolutionary history. Below are some key details about the discovery:
- Age: Approximately 380 million years old
- Location: Gogo Formation, Kimberley region, Western Australia
- Preservation: Remarkably well-preserved, showcasing detailed internal structures
- Significance: Represents the oldest known heart, offering crucial insights into heart evolution
This discovery significantly pushes back the timeline of known heart fossils, helping to deepen our understanding of vertebrate anatomy and evolution.
