Lazarus Taxon - Definition, Examples, and FAQs

Understanding the Lazarus Taxon

Have you ever heard of a Lazarus Taxon? It's a term used in paleontology to describe a species that has vanished from the fossil record and then mysteriously reappears at a later date. In simpler terms, it's like a species that was thought to be extinct but then shows up again, sometimes after millions of years.

Recommended Reading: Extinction

Origin of the Term “Lazarus Taxon”

This intriguing term was first introduced by Karl W. Flessa and David Jablonski in 1983. The name “Lazarus” is derived from the Biblical story of Lazarus, who was resurrected from the dead by Jesus.

Examples of Lazarus Taxon

Perhaps the most notorious example of a Lazarus Taxon is the Coelacanth, an ancient fish genus that was believed to be extinct 66 million years ago. However, it was surprisingly rediscovered off the South African coast. Here are some more examples of Lazarus Taxon:

• Lord Howe Island Stick Insect (Dryococelus australis)
• Nightcap Oak (Eidothea hardeniana)
• Caspian Horse (Equus ferus caballus)
• La Palma Giant Lizard (Gallotia auaritae)
• Terror Skink (Phoboscincus bocourti)
• Bermuda Petrel (Pterodroma cahow)

Explaining the Lazarus Taxon Phenomenon

There are several reasons why a species might disappear from the fossil record and then reappear. Some of the most common explanations include:

• Many fossil-bearing layers of earth haven't been thoroughly studied by paleontologists.
• The identification of a living Lazarus Taxon often requires collaboration between different scientific disciplines, such as biology and paleontology.
• The fossil record has geographical limitations. A species might become extinct in one area but survive in another, creating gaps in the fossil record.

Further Reading: Endangered Species

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