Elementary Student Stumbles on Prehistoric Goldmine
Imagine finding a 160-million-year-old clue to Earth’s history during a weekend adventure! That’s exactly what happened to Ni Jingchen, a young fossil enthusiast in Beijing, who discovered rare amphibian footprints in 2025—now confirmed as Asia’s first Jurassic-era amphibian tracks. 🌏🔍
Researchers from China University of Geosciences (Beijing) recently published their findings in Ichnos, revealing how these tiny 1.5cm prints—smaller than a thumbtack!—rewrite our understanding of ancient ecosystems. Using 3D modeling tech straight out of a sci-fi flick 🚀, the team identified the tracks as belonging to salamander-like creatures thriving in Beijing’s swampy Jurassic landscapes.
Why This Rocks the Science World
• Fills a 160-million-year gap in Asia’s fossil record • Shows amphibians coexisted with dinosaurs and turtles in lush fern-filled environments 🌿 • Proves you don’t need a PhD to make groundbreaking finds—just curiosity!
"This isn’t just about fossils—it’s about seeing Earth’s story through fresh eyes," says Prof. Xing Lida, praising the student-led discovery.
