Amber resin insect inside

Amber with preserved insect: a fossilized plant resin that trapped creatures millions of years ago, revealing prehistoric ecosystems.

About this subject

Amber is a fossilized resin produced by coniferous trees and some angiosperms millions of years ago. When resin oozes down the trunk, it can trap small organisms such as insects, spiders, or even tiny vertebrates. Over time, the resin polymerizes and hardens, preserving the inclusions in three-dimensional detail. Baltic amber, about 40 million years old, is one of the most famous sources, especially from the Kaliningrad region of Russia. Dominican amber, younger (around 20 million years old), is known for its transparency and preservation of tropical insects.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an insect get trapped in amber?

The insect lands on sticky resin exuded by a tree, becomes immobilized, and is covered by more resin layers. Over millions of years, the resin hardens and fossilizes, preserving the insect.

Is amber considered a precious stone?

Technically, amber is not a stone but a fossilized resin. It is valued as an organic gem and used in jewelry, especially for its fossil inclusions.

What is the scientific importance of insects in amber?

They provide detailed information about the morphology and ecology of extinct species, helping reconstruct past ecosystems and understand insect evolution.