Friday, January 9, 2026
AlUla Discovers 465-Million-Year-Old Horseshoe Crab Fossils
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced the documentation and international publication of a major scientific discovery involving rare horseshoe crab fossils that are about 465 million years old.
Gondwana Research, a leading international journal focusing on geological sciences, published a peer-reviewed scientific study that presented this discovery.
First Global Publication of the Discovery
This is the first time these unique fossils have been published internationally. The discovery strengthens AlUla’s status as a global center for geological and scientific research, especially in studies related to Earth’s history and biodiversity. See Also: New roads, metro and rail to access Qiddiya city
The fossils were found in the AlGharameel Nature Reserve in AlUla, adding important new scientific knowledge about the region’s natural history.
One of the Oldest Horseshoe Crab Fossils ever Discovered
These fossils are among the oldest known of horseshoe crabs, dating back to the Middle Ordovician period, 485–444 million years ago.
They are notable for their exceptionally large size compared to other fossils from the same time period.
All the fossils were discovered preserved upside down, a type of preservation never recorded before. Alongside them were trace fossils showing that the animals attempted to turn themselves back to their normal position.
This rare evidence provides insight into ancient animal behavior and allows scientists to compare it with modern biological knowledge, supporting advanced scientific research.
Evidence of Ancient Storms and Coastal Life
Geological stratigraphic studies indicated that strong seasonal storms occurred repeatedly during that period. These findings suggest that the horseshoe crabs gathered in shallow coastal areas affected by these storms.
Storm activity likely greatly influenced the preservation of the fossils inside the sediment layers.
These results offer a clearer understanding of AlUla’s ancient coastal environment and provide a new scientific perspective on the region’s geological and environmental history. Recommend: Absher Travel Service: Step by Step guide for e-travel requests
They also demonstrate the Royal Commission for AlUla’s ability to deliver accurate scientific data that supports research and innovation related to AlUla’s natural heritage.
Discovery of a New, Previously Unclassified Species
The fossils belong to a previously unclassified species. The research was conducted in two phases in collaboration with an international research team led by Dr. Russell Bicknell, an academic at Flinders University in Adelaide.
In the second round of the research, which is set to take place in the first half of 2026, scientists will gather more fossil samples and conduct more thorough analyses. With this work done, the species will be prepared for formal scientific classification.
All fossil specimens are currently kept in RCU's museum collections, assuring their availability for future scientific research and public education.
Strengthening AlUla’s Global Scientific Role
This discovery reflects the Royal Commission for AlUla’s commitment to scientific advancement. It supports AlUla’s vision to become a global destination for geological research and scientific discovery while encouraging international collaboration and the development of research and educational programs focused on natural heritage. See Also: What you should know about Gasoline 98
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| AlUla Discovers 465-Million-Year-Old Horseshoe Crab Fossils |
