New York State

World’s Oldest Fossilised Forest Found in Somerset Cliffs

Scientists from Cambridge and Cardiff Universities have discovered the world's earliest known fossilised forest along sandstone cliffs near Minehead, Somerset. Dating to the Devonian Period (419-358 million years ago), it is the oldest in Britain and globally. The trees, Calamophyton, resemble palm trees and stood 2-4 metres tall. The fossils include well-preserved plants, debris, and roots. This forest predates the previous record holder in New York State by about 4 million years. The fossils were found in the Hangman Sandstone Formation. The area was once a semi-arid plain connected to parts of Germany and Belgium. Dr. Berry and Prof. Neil Davies from Cambridge, and Dr. Paul Kenrick from the Natural History Museum, provided insights.