Alethopteris

Alethopteris is a genus of extinct plants that lived during the Carboniferous period, around 300 million years ago. These plants were primarily ferns, characterized by their intricate, feather-like leaves. They thrived in warm, humid environments and contributed to the formation of coal deposits, as their remains accumulated over time. Fossils of Alethopteris are often found in rock layers that indicate lush, swampy conditions, providing important insights into the Earth’s prehistoric ecosystems and climate. Their unique leaf structure helps paleobotanists understand the evolution of plant life and the environment of that era.