In 2021, a postdoctoral paleontologist named Arjan Mann rediscovered a fossilized bone in Texas that was first found by paleontologist Nicholas Hotton III. The bone, just over an inch long, has well-preserved oval eye sockets and is classified as a temnospondyl, a precursor to modern amphibians that existed between the Carboniferous and Triassic periods.
The creature, named Kermitops gratus after the beloved Muppets character Kermit the Frog, had a skull the size of the palm of your hand. Its distinct wide face and eyes, reminiscent of the Muppets character, caught the attention of researchers. Despite some damage to the palate and brain case, Kermitops gratus displays remarkably preserved features, including tiny palpebral ossicles in the eyelids.
Calvin So, a doctoral student at George Washington University and lead author of the study believes that naming this ancient amphibian after Kermit helps bridge the gap between scientific research and public interest in paleontology. This unique choice of name highlights the significance of sharing scientific discoveries with a wider audience.
