Coedwig Ffosil Brymbo Fossil Forest
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Geology & landscape
Geological Period: Carboniferous · Rock Type: Mudstone, Sandstone
Description
Description Exposures at Brymbo comprise approximately 14 m of Upper Carboniferous Duckmantian Coal Measures that contain an internationally important plant fossil assemblage. Of particular importance is the presence of large numbers of sediment-filled casts of Calamites stems, 1.5 m long and 10 cm in diameter, that are preserved in growth position. Such in situ Calamites stems have never before been found in such quantities in the UK. Also present are over twenty in situ arborescent lycophyte bases preserved as casts in either sandstone or less durable mudstone, with the largest found to date being about 2.5 m long and 1.5 m in diameter. Associated is a varied and scientifically important adpression flora including lycophyte stems (Lepidodendron, Lepidophloios and Sigillaria, and others with large Ulodendroid scars), cones (Flemingites), sporophylls (Lepidostrobophyllum) and dispersed megaspores (Lagenicula and Lagenoisporites), sphenophyte leaves (Annularia and Asterophyllites) and cones (Calamostachys and Palaeostachya). There are also many pteridosperms, including Karinopteris and Paripteris, and the fern Sydneia (previously only known from the Asturian of Cape Breton, Canada). Brymbo has significant potential for future research into Upper Carboniferous palaeobotany and, together with the arthropods and trace fossils found on this site, will provide a greater understanding of the palaeoecology of the Coal Measures. Remarks The site is an addition to the former Nature Conservancy Council’s Geological Conservation Review, a national survey and evaluation of sites of geological and geomorphological interest.