A discovery made by company employees Amber Galbincreated excitement among researchers and enthusiasts alike. An insect stuck in amber is a window into an ancient ecosystem trapped in the sticky resin of prehistoric trees. Over the centuries, the resin hardened, trapping the insect inside, creating what scientists call “encapsulation.”

The phenomenon of organisms encapsulated in amber has long fascinated scientists, as it allows us to look at a preserved organism trapped in a kind of time capsule, completely preserved despite having lived millions of years ago. Amber specimens with such inclusions, especially those containing insects, are invaluable for their rarity and their ability to provide unique insights into prehistoric biology and the environment.

Amber stain with insect in it / Photo: Amber Galbin

Also, in another amber sample found by Amber Galbin’s team, there are air bubbles that may hold important clues about the atmospheric conditions at the time the amber was formed.

A natural time capsule

Often referred to as “fossilized resin,” amber has proven to be an excellent storehouse of information about Earth’s ancient past. Over the centuries it has preserved not only insects, but also the remains of plants and other organisms, including ticks, spiders, scorpions, and primitive wingless and biplanetary insects. Such diverse engagements open up ways for researchers to piece together the complex fabric of life from long ago.

Pieces of amber found / Photo: Amber Galbin

The rarity of amber specimens with well-preserved inclusions, especially those with insects such as ants and spiders, makes them highly desirable among collectors and researchers alike. Their rarity adds to their appeal and value. This is an invaluable work in the world of paleontology and natural history.

It is expected that scientists will continue to discover and study amber remains, which will enable them to gain new knowledge about the ancient world and its inhabitants, and paint a clearer picture of the ecosystems and organisms that lived on our planet millions of years ago.