20myearold fossilised tree found
LESBOS, Greece: Greek scientists on the volcanic island of Lesbos say they have found a fossilised tree, the branches and roots of which are still intact after 20 million years.
The tree was found during roadworks near an ancient forest petrified millions of years ago on the eastern Mediterranean island. It was transported from the site using a special splint and metal platform.
It is the first time a tree has been found in such good condition, complete with branches and roots, since excavations began in 1995, Prof Nikos Zouros, of the Museum of Natural History of the Petrified Forest of Lesbos, said.
‘‘It is preserved in excellent condition and from studying the fossilised wood we will be able to identify the type of plant it comes from.’’
Lesbos’ petrified forest, a 15,000ha Unescoprotected site, is the result of a volcanic eruption 20 million years ago, which smothered the island’s then subtropical forest ecosystem in lava. — Reuters