Ancient 19-Metre Octopus May Have Dominated Prehistoric Oceans A groundbreaking study reveals that colossal octopuses, potentially reaching lengths of 19 metres, may have ruled the ancient oceans 100 million years ago, during the time of the dinosaurs. Researchers from Hokkaido University in Japan have analyzed remarkably well-preserved fossilized jaws, suggesting these creatures were among the largest invertebrates ever to exist. The findings challenge long-held assumptions that vertebrates like fish and reptiles were the dominant predators in prehistoric seas, redefining the role of invertebrates in ancient marine ecosystems. The study focuses on the discovery of fossilized jaws, which indicate the presence of a species with immense size and predatory capabilities. Scientists estimate that these ancient octopuses could have measured between 1.5 to 4.5 metres in body length, with their long arms adding up to a total length of 7 to 19 metres. Even at the lower end of this range, the creatures would have been vastly larger than any modern octopus species. The Giant Pacific Octopus, the largest living species today, has an arm span of over 5.5 metres, making the ancient giants significantly more formidable. The analysis of the fossilized jaws also provides intriguing insights into the behavior and physiology of these ancient predators. The uneven wear patterns on the jaws, which are more pronounced on one side, suggest that these octopuses may have exhibited a preference for using one side of their body during feeding. This handedness, a trait observed in some modern octopuses, is linked to advanced brain function and problem-solving abilities.#hokkaido_university #university_of_bath #university_of_zurich #science_journal #ammonites
