Description
You are purchasing the exact fossil specimen pictured — a beautifully preserved example of the extinct seed fern Polymorphopteris polymorpha, collected from the Carboniferous Coal Measures near Radstock, Somerset, UK.
This specimen was discovered on 12 May 2025 by our experienced field team, Alister and Alison, and has been professionally cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison. The frond detail is clearly visible, showcasing the unique structure and venation that define this Carboniferous plant species.
A 1cm scale cube is included in the photographs for accurate sizing. Please refer to the images for complete condition and dimensions.
Specimen Details:
- Scientific Name: Polymorphopteris polymorpha
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Division: Pteridospermatophyta (Seed Ferns)
- Order: Medullosales
- Family: Pecopteridaceae (historically used classification)
- Geological Period: Carboniferous
- Epoch: Pennsylvanian (Upper Carboniferous)
- Stage: Westphalian B–C
- Formation: Coal Measures Group
- Locality: Radstock, Somerset, UK
- Depositional Environment: Low-lying, oxygen-poor swamp forests and deltaic plains; rich in organic matter, promoting excellent fossil preservation
- Biozone Association: Often co-occurs with Pecopteris, Neuropteris, Alethopteris, and Calamites
- Morphology Features:
- Compound fronds with multiple pinnae
- Pinnules variable in shape (hence “polymorpha”), often rounded or lobed
- Fine dichotomous venation and occasionally visible sori (fertile structures) in exceptional preservation
- Scientific Note: Formally described during 19th-century studies of European Coal Measures; Polymorphopteris is known for its diversity of leaflet morphology and placement within transitional fern-like seed plants
About the Fossil:
Polymorphopteris polymorpha was part of the lush, tropical coal forest ecosystem that thrived during the Carboniferous Period, over 300 million years ago. These seed ferns were among the earliest vascular plants to colonise wet lowlands, contributing significantly to the formation of coal seams found across Britain. Their fronds are admired for their delicate and varied shapes.
Why Choose Us?
- 100% Genuine Fossil Specimen
- Includes a Certificate of Authenticity
- Discovered, prepared, and documented by our trusted team
- You receive the exact specimen pictured
- Responsibly and legally sourced from a classic UK locality
Perfect for:
- Fossil collectors
- Science educators
- Natural history enthusiasts
- Museum-quality displays
- Unique geology-themed gifts
Note:
Scale cube = 1cm. Please review all photographs for full detail and size before purchasing.
Thank you for supporting ethical fossil discovery and the preservation of ancient plant history.
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