Recent research published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B reveals that ancient trees, specifically the roots of the giant Paleozoic lycopsid Stigmaria, grew in a manner resembling shoots rather than traditional roots. Utilizing advanced X-ray micro-computed tomography, scientists scanned fossils to uncover that these rootlets emerged near the apex, suggesting a novel root structure. This finding challenges long-held beliefs about root development and highlights the evolutionary uniqueness of Stigmaria, which may shed light on ancient forest ecology. Ongoing research is needed to explore if this shoot-like root structure was present in other species and its implications for understanding ancient ecosystems.
Disclaimer: This summary is written by AI, which can make mistakes. Please follow up on any news information from additional sources.
Link to original article source: https://sciencex.com/news/2026-05-root-problem-ancient-trees-grown.html
