@pitochk: It’s time to dive into one of the most fascinating - and at the same time, one of the most terrifying - eras in Earth’s history.A time when giant insects ruled the planet. High levels of oxygen in the atmosphere allowed creatures that are relatively small today - like centipedes and dragonflies - to grow to sizes comparable to a small dog. Arthropods were among the first to conquer land, and it’s no surprise that they pushed their size to the absolute limits of what was possible. However, their own anatomy held them back. Their tracheal respiratory system simply doesn’t allow bodies to grow infinitely large - there wouldn’t be enough oxygen to efficiently supply their tissues. And yet, it’s incredible to imagine - even if a bit terrifying - what it would be like to witness that world. #prehistoric#ancientearth#giantinsects#evolution#edit