Unable to escape in time, this pair of adult chironomid midges was rapidly trapped in flowing resin while in the act of mating on the surface of a tree. After 25-40 million years, they remain in amber locked in their copulatory embrace. This distinct mating posture is identical to that displayed by similar species of flies today and is an example of conserved behavioral patterns. Studying amber can help shed light on when and how certain types of complex behaviors evolved in animals. Photograph was digitally enhanced for detail. Approximate magnification = x 12

 

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