Recent discoveries in Mallorca have unveiled the remains of the oldest known gorgonopsian, a group of extinct carnivorous synapsids that thrived during the Permian period, between 270 and 250 million years ago. Characterized by saber-like teeth, these creatures were warm-blooded and laid eggs, existing as dominant predators akin to modern mammals. The fossils, excavated over three field campaigns near Banyalbufar, include various skeletal remains such as skull fragments and a well-preserved femur. Lead researcher Rafel Matamales expressed surprise at the discovery’s scale and significance, as most gorgonopsian remains had previously been found in higher latitudes like Russia or South Africa. This particular specimen, resembling a one-meter-long dog-like animal, is estimated to be at least 270 million years old, predating other known gorgonopsians. The fossils reveal advanced limb anatomy that suggests a locomotion style transitional between reptiles and mammals, facilitating efficient movement. During the Permian, Mallorca was part of the supercontinent Pangaea, situated at an equatorial latitude with a monsoonal climate. This exceptional fossil find contributes to the rich paleontological record of the Balearic Islands, which includes notable discoveries from various geological periods.
