Student's Fossil Discovery Reveals New Prehistoric Mammal Species

In a remarkable turn of events, an undergraduate student from the University of Portsmouth has uncovered a new species of prehistoric mammal during a field trip along the cliffs of Dorset, England. This notable discovery, made on July 14, 2025, involves a 16.5-millimeter lower jaw fossil found embedded in rock at Durlston Bay, a location renowned for its rich geological layers. The fossil, belonging to a type of extinct mammal known as a multituberculate, is poised to reshape current understanding of early mammal evolution, particularly as it is the first multituberculate jaw discovered in the area since the 1800s.

The student, Ben Weston, expressed his astonishment at the find, stating, “I instantly had my suspicions of what the jaw was when I found it at the beach, but couldn’t have imagined where the discovery would take me.” Multituberculates, which lived alongside dinosaurs, are characterized by their complex teeth structure, which suggests diverse dietary habits. The newly identified species has been named Novaculadon mirabilis, with "Novacula" meaning razor, reflecting the sharp teeth, while "mirabilis" signifies the near-perfect preservation of the fossil.

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth, including Dr. Charles Wood, a senior scientific officer who employed high-resolution CT scanning to analyze the fossil, have highlighted the collaborative effort involved in this discovery. The advanced scanning technology enabled the team to visualize the fossil without causing damage, allowing for detailed analysis of its features. Jake Keane, a former paleontology student now based in Abu Dhabi, played a crucial role in processing the scans, which were subsequently transformed into 3D-printed models for further study.

The implications of this discovery extend beyond mere taxonomy. According to Dr. Steve Sweetman, a researcher at the University of Portsmouth, this find underscores the potential for significant contributions to paleontology from students. “This is a remarkable find that reminds me of when Grant Smith found those extraordinary eutherian mammal teeth,” he remarked, drawing parallels between Weston’s discovery and previous significant finds in the same region.

The study detailing this discovery has been published in the *Proceedings of the Geologists Association*, offering insights into the evolutionary history of multituberculates, which thrived during the Mesozoic era and filled various ecological niches. Approximately 200 known multituberculate species existed, demonstrating remarkable adaptability, yet they faced extinction during the Oligocene epoch around 33 million years ago.

Professor David Martill, who was involved in the research, emphasized the importance of teamwork in scientific discovery, noting, “Looking back now that the discovery has been published, I am amazed at how many people it took to describe this little mammal.” This collaborative effort involved academics, technicians, and students from various departments, showcasing the university's commitment to fostering a research-driven environment.

The discovery of Novaculadon mirabilis not only enriches the understanding of early mammal evolution but also serves as an inspiring reminder that significant scientific contributions can emerge from unexpected places. As researchers continue to explore the geological richness of Durlston Bay, future discoveries may further illuminate the complexities of prehistoric life and the evolutionary trajectories of mammals.

In conclusion, the fossil find by Ben Weston exemplifies the potential for undergraduate research to yield groundbreaking discoveries in paleontology, reinforcing the notion that the quest for knowledge is often found in the most unassuming of places. The ongoing research into the fossil may provide further insights into the survival strategies of early mammals during the age of dinosaurs, offering a broader understanding of their ecological roles and evolutionary pathways.