A piece of fossilized vomit, dating back 66 million years to the time of the dinosaurs, has been discovered in Denmark. Local fossil hunter Peter Bennicke found the fossil at Stevns Klint, a UNESCO-listed coastal cliff, and it has been confirmed by the Museum of East Zealand to date from the end of the Cretaceous period.
- Fossilized vomit discovered in Denmark
- Found by fossil hunter Peter Bennicke
- Fragments identified as sea lily remains
- Dates back to the end of Cretaceous
- Provides insights into prehistoric food chains
- Gained global interest as unique discovery
The fossilized vomit, identified as containing fragments of sea lilies, offers significant insights into the diets of prehistoric marine life. Sea lilies are related to modern starfish and sea urchins and were consumed by fish and sharks during the Cretaceous period. As these creatures struggled to digest the sea lilies, they would regurgitate the hard-to-digest chalk bits, leading to the formation of this fossil.
This discovery is notable for its contribution to understanding ancient ecosystems. Jesper Milan, a palaeontologist at the Museum of East Zealand, emphasized that the find helps illustrate the relationships in the prehistoric food chain. He stated, “It tells US something about who was eating who 66 million years ago,” highlighting its importance in reconstructing the past.
In addition to its scientific value, the discovery has garnered global interest, with Milan referring to it as “the world’s most famous piece of puke ever.” This attention underscores the fascination with paleontological finds that connect modern audiences with the ancient world.
This fossilized vomit provides a unique glimpse into the diets of marine creatures during the Cretaceous period, enhancing our understanding of prehistoric life and its ecosystems. The implications of this find extend beyond Denmark, contributing to a broader comprehension of ancient food chains and environmental conditions.
