8 Million Year Old Fossils Discovered Beneath L.A. High School

Marine fossils that are 8.7 million years old have been found under a high school in Los Angeles. These incredible finds include prehistoric creatures like the saber-toothed salmon and the massive megalodon shark. Let’s look at how the discovery happened beneath San Pedro High School and amazed scientists!

Two Major Fossil Sites Unearthed

Researchers uncovered two main fossil sites on the high school campus. One dates back 8.7 million years to the Miocene era, and the other is 120,000 years old from the Pleistocene era! These sites give a glimpse into life from two very different prehistoric times.

Discovery Timeline

The fossils were found between June 2022 and July 2024. Moreover, excavations took place over two years as scientists carefully studied the site. Since then, this discovery has drawn attention from the public and the scientific community alike.

Researchers Analyze Fossil Composition

Scientists are now testing the fossils to learn more about their chemical and mineral makeup. Richard Behl, a geologist from California State University, Long Beach, explained the importance of these tests. Specifically, the results will help them understand the environment where these ancient creatures lived.

Fossils Found in Diatomite Rock

Many of the fossils were encased in diatomite, a type of rock made from fossilized algae. This algae-rich environment supported a wide variety of marine life millions of years ago. Furthermore, the diatomite is a key clue to understanding the prehistoric ecosystem.

Rare Ecosystem Discovery

Wayne Bischoff, a cultural resources director, said the fossils represent an entire ancient ecosystem. Moreover, this discovery provides a rare opportunity to study what life was like nearly nine million years ago. Such well-preserved fossils are not found every day!

Fossils Include Megalodon Teeth and Dolphin Bones

Some of the most exciting finds include teeth from a juvenile megalodon and bones from an extinct dolphin species. These fossils offer a glimpse into the variety of marine life that once thrived in the area the high school now occupies. Additionally, the jawbone of a saber-toothed salmon is another significant find!

Submarine Channel Possibly Carried Fossils

Researchers believe a submarine channel might have transported these fossils to their current location. This channel likely moved material from shallow waters to deeper parts of the ocean. Additionally, volcanic activity in the area may have played a role in preserving the fossils.

Unexpected Discovery During Excavation

Austin Hendy, an assistant curator at the Natural History Museum, said the discovery was a surprise! Scientists did not expect to find such well-preserved fossils when they began digging. So, the excavation turned out to be much more significant than anyone initially thought.

Fossils Distributed for Research and Education

The fossils have been sent to various research institutions for further study. Some of the institutions include the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. Moving forward, the discovery of these fossils will also be used for educational purposes at local schools.

Boost to Local Education and Community

The discovery has led to new opportunities for scientific study in the local community. Alberto Carvalho, the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, said it brings recognition to the high school and the area. Furthermore, the fossils have sparked excitement and pride among students and teachers.

Impact on Future Research

This fossil find will help researchers better understand prehistoric ecosystems. Specifically, the variety of species uncovered offers valuable information for future studies. Scientists hope to learn more about the relationships between these ancient creatures and their environment.

A Rare Window into Prehistoric Life

Overall, the fossils discovered under the high school offer a rare look into life millions of years ago. The preservation of an entire ecosystem is an extraordinary scientific opportunity. Now, this find will continue to fascinate and inform researchers for years to come.