Discover the 300 Million-Year-Old 'Spiky Spider' in Mazon Creek Fossil Beds

A fascinating discovery of a new arachnid species from the late Carboniferous period was recently published in the Journal of Paleontology. This new species was found by a research team at the Mazon Creek fossil beds in Northern Illinois, dating back to around 300 million years ago. The Mazon Creek Fossil-Lagersttte is known for its diverse fossil biota, and this new spider, named Douglassarachne acanthopod, is unlike any other arachnid previously discovered. The distinct spiny legs and body suggest unique adaptations for defense against predators, similar to some living arachnids like armored harvestmen. The authors believe that the spines on the spider's legs evolved as a protective mechanism, a common strategy among arthropods from the late Carboniferous era. The discovery sheds light on the diversity of ancient arachnids and their adaptations to their environment. Looking at modern 'spiny spiders' like the Green Lynx Spider and Spiny Orb-Weaver can provide insights into the morphology and behavior of this ancient arachnid.