Scientists discover oldest known fossil tumor

A paleontologist at the University of Washington discovered a benign tumor, known as an ornitoma, in the teeth of a Gorgonopsian, an ancient synapsid that lived 255 million years ago. This finding represents the oldest known instance of such a tumor. Gorgonopsians were top predators and part of the synapsid group, which includes modern mammals as its only living members. The discovery helps fill gaps in understanding mammalian evolution and may provide insights into the origins of modern diseases.

What significant discovery did the University of Washington paleontologist make?

• A benign tumor in ancient animal teeth

• A new species of dinosaur

• The oldest known fossil of a bird

• A new type of plant fossil

What role did the Gorgonopsian play in its ecosystem?

• A prey animal

• A scavenger

• A primary herbivore

• A top predator

Which group does the Gorgonopsian belong to?

• Synapsids

• Dinosaurs

• Amphibians

• Reptiles

What is the only living member of the synapsids?

• Birds

• Fish

• Reptiles

• Modern mammals

How does this discovery contribute to our understanding of evolution?

• It shows the first instance of flight in animals

• It provides insights into mammalian evolution and disease origins

• It reveals the diet of ancient reptiles

• It explains the extinction of dinosaurs