A remarkable discovery at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has unveiled a fascinating glimpse into the past—an ancient amphibian fossil, reminiscent of Kermit the Frog, has been unearthed and named Kermitops gratus by paleontologists.
The fossilized skull, measuring approximately one inch (2.5 centimeters) in length with distinctive oval-shaped eye sockets, was initially discovered by paleontologist Nicholas Hotton III in the Red Beds of Texas. However, it remained overlooked until 2021 when Arjan Mann, a postdoctoral paleontologist, stumbled upon it in the museum archives.
Described in a study published in the Zoological Journal, this newfound species of proto-amphibian bears a striking resemblance to the beloved Muppets character, Kermit the Frog, owing to its “cartoonishly wide-eyed face.” Lead author Calvin So emphasizes the significance of the name “Kermit” in bridging paleontological science with public engagement, given Kermit’s status as a modern amphibian icon.
Distinct physical features of the skull, notably the shortened portion housing the eye sockets compared to its elongated snout, distinguish Kermitops gratus from other tetrapods, ancient ancestors of amphibians. Scientists speculate that this stout creature likely had a diet consisting of tiny grub-like insects, utilizing its elongated snout to snap up prey.
While not classified as a frog, Kermitops gratus belongs to the order temnospondyls, considered common ancestors of modern amphibians like frogs, salamanders, and caecilians. This discovery provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and relationships within these amphibian groups, contributing to our understanding of their evolution and placement on the evolutionary tree.
The identification of Kermitops gratus underscores the importance of museum collections in uncovering ancient organisms that offer crucial clues about the diversity and evolution of life on Earth. This finding represents not only a scientific milestone but also a delightful connection between pop culture and paleontological research, inviting both scientists and the general public to marvel at the wonders of our planet’s history.
