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Darwinius masillae (Ida, PMO 214.214)

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description Darwinius masillae (Ida, PMO 214.214) Overview

Darwinius masillae specimen PMO 214.214, commonly called Ida, is a nearly complete Eocene primate fossil from the Messel Pit in Germany. The specimen is about 47 million years old and preserves an unusually detailed skeleton, including much of the body and limb structure. Its 2009 description received broad public attention after claims that it was close to human ancestry, but subsequent scientific work has generally placed Darwinius among adapiform strepsirrhine primates related to the lemur lineage.

help Darwinius masillae (Ida, PMO 214.214) FAQ

What is Ida, the Darwinius masillae fossil?

Ida is the nickname for specimen PMO 214.214, a nearly complete Eocene primate fossil from Germany's Messel Pit. It preserves much of the skeleton, including body and limb structure.

How old is the Darwinius masillae specimen?

The specimen is about 47 million years old. It dates to the Eocene epoch.

Where was Ida discovered?

Ida comes from the Messel Pit fossil site in Germany. The site is known for exceptionally preserved Eocene fossils.

Why is Ida scientifically important?

Its skeleton is unusually complete for an ancient primate fossil, giving researchers detailed evidence about body and limb anatomy. The specimen is formally identified as Darwinius masillae PMO 214.214.

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