Goethe never knew this 40-million-year-old ant was hidden in his collection

Science Daily | Thu, 04 Jun 2026 08:30:55 EDT

In Goethe's amber,
fossil ant trapped, ancient forms—
nests in tree boughs lost.

Scientists examining amber from Goethe’s personal collection discovered three hidden fossil insects, including an extinct ant preserved in extraordinary detail. Advanced 3D imaging allowed researchers to see not only the ant’s outer features but also structures inside its body. The findings offer new clues about…

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