Pincer-wielding 507m-year-old fossil sheds light on evolution of crabs

Mandibulates, a group that includes crustaceans and insects, show huge diversity - Tokummia katalepsis could be the missing link that explains why

A fossilised ancient creature boasting huge pincers resembling can-openers, a hinged two-piece shell and more than 50 pairs of legs has been discovered, shedding light on the evolutionary past of a huge and diverse group of animals.

Researchers say the creature, thought to have lived about 507 million years ago during the Cambrian period, offers insights into the early body plan of mandibulates - a group that encompasses creatures including millipedes, crabs and ants. The group takes its name from the presence of mouth parts known as mandibles, which the animals use to help hold or eat food.