Remarkable Discovery: Ancient Tree Fossils Unearthed at Phnom Tbeng Natural Heritage Site

Remarkable Discovery: Ancient Tree Fossils Unearthed at Phnom Tbeng Natural Heritage Site

A groundbreaking discovery has been made by the fossil study team from the Department of Heritage Sites of the Ministry of Environment, revealing the presence of tree fossils dating back to between 251 and 65 million years at the Phnom Tbeng Natural Heritage Site. This significant finding was shared on the ministry’s Facebook page on 29 March 2024.

The expedition, conducted by the fossil study team, meticulously excavated tree fossils in Phnom Sruoch (Phnom Tbeng Natural Heritage Area) from 19-28 March 2024. Their excavation efforts, reaching depths of 1.5 metres, widths of 2 metres, and lengths of 6 metres, unveiled a remarkable 3.5 metres of wood fossils, along with pieces of twig preserved as charcoal and fossilised leaves nestled within the top layer of sandstone of Phnom Tbeng. The fossils are believed to date back to the Mesozoic era, specifically the Jurassic-Cretaceous period, spanning from 251 to 65 million years ago.

In addition to these tree fossils, the team also unearthed a treasure trove of other ancient relics, including marine fossils, bone fossils, animal fossils, and fish fossils, further enriching our understanding of the region’s prehistoric past.

Phnom Tbeng, situated in Preah Vihear province, holds immense cultural and geological significance, with Cambodia previously petitioning UNESCO to designate it as a World Heritage Site. (Read more)

Moreover, in 2023, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) identified the site as a potential location for a 20.23-kilometre trail, aimed at connecting the surrounding communities and protected areas.  (Read more)

This discovery not only underscores the rich biodiversity and geological heritage of Phnom Tbeng but also emphasises the importance of preserving and studying such invaluable natural treasures for generations to come.

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