Complex life on Earth may be much older than thought. A group of scientists found evidence in Gabon showing environmental conditions for animal life 2.1 billion years ago. However, they believe these organisms were restricted to an inland sea and didn’t spread globally. The research adds to a debate over whether unexplained formations in Franceville, Gabon are actually fossils or not.
The team discovered rocks with evidence of nutrients like oxygen and phosphorus that could have supported life. They think this could have led to the appearance of complex living organisms similar to slime mould. However, not all scientists agree. Some experts believe animal life began around 635 million years ago.
Professor Ernest Chi Fru said his research helps prove ideas about the processes that create life on Earth. He believes that if his theory is correct, it would help understand where we have come from. The findings are published in Precambrian Research.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3geyvpxpeyo