The oldest known brain structure is at least 521 million years old, based on fossil evidence.
The Fossil Record of Brains
While soft tissues like brains rarely fossilize, exceptional preservation sites have allowed scientists to study ancient brain structures. The current fossil record suggests the emergence of brain structures at least 521 million years ago. This understanding comes from the rare fossilization of brain tissue, which allows researchers to infer the age of the first brain structures.
Significance of the Discovery
This discovery helps scientists understand the early evolution of nervous systems and how complex behaviors developed in animals. It provides a glimpse into the origins of consciousness and intelligence. While the exact age can only be estimated from existing fossils, these fossils act as minimum-age timestamps. Further discoveries could potentially push back the estimated age even further.
