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Extinct horsehair fossils: Calamites arenaceus
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Extinct horsehair fossils: Calamites arenaceus
Extinct horsehair fossils: Calamites arenaceus and Equisetites columnaris.. Handcolored lithograph from Dr. F.A. Schmidts Petrefactenbuch, published in Stuttgart, Germany, 1855 by Verlag von Krais & Hoffmann. Dr. Schmidts Book of Petrification introduced fossils and palaeontology to both the specialist and general reader
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Media ID 14219421
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Calamites Extinct Fossil Horsehair Palaeontology Petrefactenbuch Petrification Schmidt
EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcolored lithograph, titled "Calamites arenaceus and Equisetites columnaris," showcases two extinct species of fossilized plants: Calamites arenaceus and Equisetites columnaris. The image is taken from Dr. F.A. Schmidt's Petrefactenbuch, published in Stuttgart, Germany, in 1855 by Verlag von Krais & Hoffmann. Dr. Schmidt's Book of Petrification was a groundbreaking work that introduced both the specialist and general reader to the fascinating world of fossils and palaeontology. The Calamites arenaceus, depicted on the left side of the image, is often referred to as the "horsehair fossil" due to its striking resemblance to horsehair. This extinct plant grew in dense thickets during the Carboniferous period, around 350 million years ago. Its slender, elongated stems were covered in tiny, hair-like structures, providing a protective barrier against herbivores and contributing to the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. On the right side of the lithograph, Equisetites columnaris is illustrated. This extinct plant, also known as the "wandering cane," is a member of the modern-day horsetail family. Equisetites columnaris grew in swampy environments during the Devonian and Carboniferous periods, around 410 to 350 million years ago. Its tall, hollow stems were covered in tiny, microscopic hairs, allowing the plant to absorb water and nutrients directly from the soil. The intricate detail and vibrant colors of this handcolored lithograph not only showcase the beauty of these extinct plants but also provide a glimpse into the rich history of palaeontology. Dr. Schmidt's Petrefactenbuch was a significant contribution to the scientific community, paving the way for further exploration and understanding of the natural world.
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