Archaeology breakthrough as 300million 12 months previous tree present in Devon | UK | News | EUROtoday

An thrilling 377 million-year-old discovery has been made in Devon, say council bosses.

Torbay Council mentioned the fossils of timber have been found close to Paignton – a discovery which has sparked pleasure amongst scientists.

The fossils, often known as lycopsids, have been discovered by Dr Kevin Page throughout a survey of Saltern Cove which is a part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark.

Due to its significance, the invention was stored underneath wraps for a while whereas the Geopark coordinated a working group.

It is believed the tree fossil is 337 million years previous.

Experts from Universities of Exeter, Plymouth, Cardiff and Lille, together with Natural England got here collectively to make sure one of the best and most acceptable outcomes for the discover.

Torbay Council mentioned the timber would have regarded like palm timber, stories BBC.

Dr Page, president of ProGEO [the International Association for the Conservation of Geological Heritage] and honorary senior analysis fellow at Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter, mentioned the invention was a “remarkable find”.

This uncommon and distinctive discovery may very well be the primary document of a desert island with timber in Devon.

Dr Page added: “These fossils are incredibly significant as they provide valuable insights into the prehistoric environment of Torbay, including the presence of volcanic islands with trees growing on them.

Geopark coordinator Melanie Border said the fossil could open a “new chapter” of fixing environments and circumstances on the web site.

So far, data have solely proven proof of a marine atmosphere however now there may be proof of volcanic islands and timber too.

Earlier this 12 months, one of many oldest fossils ever found was discovered alongside the coast of Devon and Somerset.

Scientists uncovered what they believed to be the world’s oldest fossil forest at round 390 million years previous, reported The Independent in March 2024.