Scientists believe an ancient beetle trapped in amber is now direct evidence that insects were pollinating flowers nearly 100 million years ago.
Science Magazine reports that the species of beetle in question, called Angimordella burmitina, is related to a modern species of beetles that pollinate flowers. Researchers said the beetle was encased in amber 99 million years ago.
The beetle was recovered from Southeast Asia in 2012, but it went unnoticed until recently. Then, a paleontologist polished the amber and noticed the beetle had characteristics seen in modern-day pollinating beetles, including leg-like appendages for collecting pollen. Most notably, the researchers found 62 grains of pollen covering the beetle’s thorax, abdomen, and legs.
Source: IGN.com This Beetle Preserved in Amber Was Possibly One of the First Insects to Pollinate Flowers