These life forms are everywhere in the world, thriving in both terrestrial and aquatic of Earth, with a presence that spans possibly 3.7 billion years
9. Comb Jellies
They are more than 515 million years old, and what truly stands out about this species is its remarkable overlap, sharing over 50% of known genetic diseases with humans
8. Sponges
Sponges have an age range spanning from 500 to 600 million years, with nearly 10,000 distinct species inhabiting our planet.
7. Jellyfish
In contrast to sponges, jellyfish possess multiple organs and have been in existence for nearly 500 million years.
6. Velvet Worms
Unlike most worms, these arthropods, dating back 430 million years, lack a rigid outer skeleton. Their skin resembles velvet and they walked on up to 43 pairs of hook-like feet.
5. Nautilus
With over 2,500 identified species, they have graced our planet for a span of time ranging from 400 to 500 million years.
4. Horseshoe Crab
In 2008, scientists found fossils of this unique crab dating back 445 million years. Similar to numerous other species, horseshoe crabs have also met people who use them to test vaccine safety.
3. Sharks
Establishing the age of ancient shark fossils has revealed that sharks likely predate trees. Approximately 450 million years ago, the initial shark species were devoid of teeth.
2. Elephant Shark
Establishing the age of ancient shark fossils has revealed that sharks likely predate trees. Approximately 450 million years ago, the initial shark species were devoid of teeth.
1. Coelacanth
The oldest fossils of this fish provide insights into its existence roughly 360 million years in the past. It appears that this species became extinct approximately 65 million years ago. At the same time, dinosaurs met the same destiny.