Controversial findings point to earlier origins of complex life on Earth

A groundbreaking theory suggesting that complex life on Earth might have originated up to 1.5 billion years earlier than previously thought has gained traction following recent discoveries.

A team of scientists claims to have uncovered new evidence suggesting that complex life on Earth might have originated 1.5 billion years earlier than previously believed, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Working in Gabon, the researchers found indications within ancient rocks that favorable environmental conditions for animal life existed 2.1 billion years ago. However, they note that these early organisms were confined to an inland sea, did not spread across the globe, and eventually became extinct.

These ideas represent a significant shift from established beliefs, and not all scientists are in agreement. The prevailing view among experts is that animal life began approximately 635 million years ago. This research contributes to the ongoing debate about whether certain unexplained formations found in Franceville, Gabon, are indeed fossils. The scientists examined the surrounding rock to determine if it contained nutrients such as oxygen and phosphorus, which could have supported life. Professor Ernest Chi Fru from Cardiff University collaborated with an international team on this study.

He told BBC News that, if his theory holds true, these early life forms might have resembled slime molds—a simple, single-celled organism without a brain that reproduces through spores. However, Professor Graham Shields from University College London, who was not part of the research, expressed some skepticism. "I’m open to the possibility that there were higher nutrient levels 2.1 billion years ago, but I’m not convinced that this would have led to the development of complex life," he said, emphasizing the need for more evidence.

Professor Chi Fru countered that his research supports theories about the origins of life on Earth. "We’re showing that there are fossils here and evidence of oxygen, which could have triggered the emergence of the first complex organisms," he explained. "This mirrors what we see from the Cambrian period, around 635 million years ago, reinforcing our understanding of the evolution of life and our origins."

The initial suggestion that complex life might have begun earlier than previously believed emerged around a decade ago with the discovery of the Francevillian formation. Professor Chi Fru and his team argued that this formation contained fossils indicative of life forms capable of "wiggling" and autonomous movement. However, these findings faced skepticism and were not universally accepted by the scientific community.