MicroCT render of this ancient scorpion
Published in the Faunitaxys, April 2025
The discovery of Burmesescorpiops Wunpawng represents a significant breakthrough in our understanding of arachnid evolution during the Cretaceous period.
In partnership with Wilson R. Lourenço and the Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris, the Kachin Amber Research Institute has established the existence of a new species of ancient scorpion.
This 100-million-year-old scorpion specimen, perfectly preserved in amber, provides unique insights into the biodiversity of ancient forests that once covered what is now the Hukawng Valley in Kachin State,Myanmar.
The specimen was recovered from Tanaing Kachin amber deposits and has been meticulously analyzed using advanced imaging techniques to reveal its morphological features without damaging the fossil.
The name of the new species is derived from the Kachin word "wunpawng" which refers to the asemblage and union of indigineous tribes which comprise the Kachin People.