Oldest fossil of any land-dwelling organism yet found - fungus called Tortotubus
Q. The oldest fossil of any land-dwelling organism yet found is of a- Published on 07 Mar 16a. Fungus
b. Bacteria
c. Fly
d. Lizard
ANSWER: Fungus
- Scientists have identified the oldest fossil of any land-dwelling organism yet found — an early type of fungus from 440 million years ago which likely kick—started the process of rot and soil formation, encouraging the growth and diversification of life on land.
- This early pioneer, known as Tortotubus , displays a structure similar to one found in some modern fungi, which likely enabled it to store and transport nutrients through the process of decomposition.
- Although it cannot be said to be the first organism to have lived on land, it is the oldest fossil of a terrestrial organism yet found.
- Before there could be flowering plants or trees, or the animals that depend on them, the processes of rot and soil formation needed to be established.
- Fungi played a key role in the move to land, since by kick-starting the rotting process, a layer of fertile soil having nutrients could eventually be built up, enabling plants with root systems to establish themselves, which in turn could support animal life.
