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Mariopteris muricata, seed fern
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Mariopteris muricata, seed fern
A leaf of a Carboniferous seed fern plant from Staffordshire
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Media ID 20160395
© Bubblepunk / Natural History Museum
Carboniferous Fern Fortey Fossil Fossilised Frond Gymnospermopsida Medullosaceae Muricata Paleozoic Past Phanerozoic Polypodiophyta Prehistoric Pteridophyta Pteridophyte Pteridosperm Pteridospermales Pteridospermatophyta Seed Seed Fern Staffordshire
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1. Title: A Glimpse into the Past: Mariopteris muricata, the Carboniferous Seed Fern Leaf from Staffordshire 2.. This fossilized leaf, showcased in the image, belongs to Mariopteris muricata, a seed fern from the Carboniferous period. Discovered in Staffordshire, England, this ancient relic provides us with a unique window into the prehistoric world, around 320 million years ago. Mariopteris muricata is a member of the Pteridospermatophytes, a group of extinct seed-bearing plants that bridged the gap between the ferns (Pteridophytes) and the first true seed plants (Gymnosperms). The term "seed fern" is used to describe these plants due to their fern-like fronds and seed-bearing structures. The Carboniferous period, which lasted from approximately 359 to 299 million years ago, was a significant time in Earth's history. This era, part of the Paleozoic and Phanerozoic eras, saw the rise of terrestrial vegetation and the development of complex ecosystems. Mariopteris muricata, with its intricate leaf structure, is a testament to the evolutionary advancements that occurred during this time. The leaf's surface exhibits the characteristic muricate (rough, warty) texture, which is a hallmark of Mariopteris species. The leaf's midrib and veins are clearly visible, revealing the complex vascular system that facilitated the transportation of water and nutrients. The discovery of this fossilized leaf by renowned Scottish botanist, Sir Richard Forey, adds to our understanding of the rich biosphere that existed during the Carboniferous period. This relic, now preserved in the annals of history, serves as a reminder of the incredible journey of plant life on Earth.
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