Description
Authentic Alethopteris Fossil Leaf Fern – Carboniferous Coal Measures – Radstock, Somerset, UK
This listing features a beautifully preserved fossilised leaf of Alethopteris, a type of seed fern (Pteridospermatophyta) common in Carboniferous coal swamps. This specimen was excavated from the historic Coal Measures strata in Radstock, Somerset, and dates to the Late Carboniferous Period (Pennsylvanian Subsystem), approximately 310 million years ago.
Geological & Palaeobotanical Details:
- Fossil Genus: Alethopteris
- Family: Alethopteridaceae
- Order: Medullosales
- Class: Pteridospermatophyta (Seed Ferns)
- Geological Age: Carboniferous (Pennsylvanian)
- Formation: British Upper Coal Measures
- Depositional Environment: Moist, equatorial deltaic swamp with fluctuating water levels – a habitat ideal for dense vegetation and coal formation
- Location: Radstock Coalfield, Somerset, United Kingdom
- Morphological Features:
- Distinctive bipinnate fronds with symmetrical leaflets (pinnae)
- Prominent midribs and lateral venation typical of seed ferns
- Leaves believed to belong to seed-bearing plants, now extinct
- Biozone (if assigned): Typically associated with Lenisulcata or Gastrioceras ammonoid zones regionally
- Fossil Identification: Described and classified in the 19th century; remains a key taxon in palaeobotany due to its prevalence and role in coal formation
Specimen Notes:
- Discovered by: UKGE team members Alister and Alison
- Discovery Date: 06 March 2025
- Preparation: Cleaned, stabilised, and prepped by Alison
- Condition: Well-defined fossil on natural matrix, showing clear detail of fossilised leaf structure
- Photography: Scale cube = 1cm. Photos show actual specimen – what you see is what you will receive
- Authenticity: Comes with Certificate of Authenticity – all fossils sold by us are genuine and responsibly sourced
Why Choose Alethopteris?
Alethopteris is not only a stunning example of Carboniferous flora but also a tangible link to the lush tropical landscapes that once dominated Europe. Its role in forming the vast coal beds of the UK makes it both a beautiful and historically significant specimen for collectors, educators, or as a natural history display.
Secure a genuine piece of Earth’s botanical past today with this expertly sourced and prepared fossil fern.
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