Egypt desert fossils reveal ancient marine ecosystems

Paleontologists have discovered significant fossil evidence in Egypt's desert regions, revealing that areas currently characterized by arid climates were once thriving marine ecosystems.

At the Qreiya 3 paleontological site in the Eastern Desert, researchers identified approximately 500 preserved fish fossils dating back roughly 62 million years to the Paleocene period. These fossils include more than 20 types of ray-finned fish, providing insight into how marine life recovered following the mass extinction of dinosaurs. Chemical analysis of the surrounding rocks has allowed scientists to estimate ancient water conditions and ecosystem temperatures.

Additionally, a team led by Tarek Yassin from Cairo University uncovered shark teeth in the Abu-Tartur plateau desert. The teeth belong to at least seven different species, varying in shape, size, and color. The presence of phosphorite deposits in the area further supports the conclusion that North Africa hosted prosperous underwater ecosystems during the Cretaceous period, when higher sea levels and warmer global temperatures submerged much of the continent.