Shizuishan Ancient Tree Fossil

Shizuishan Ancient Tree Fossil

Introduction to the Shizuishan Ancient Tree Fossil

The Shizuishan Ancient Tree Fossil was discovered in August 1995 in Xiaoquzigou, within Dawukou, deep in the Helan Mountain area. It dates back approximately 150–200 million years, belonging to the middle Jurassic period. The fossilized tree is 18 meters long and 1.5 meters wide, with a high degree of carbonization, appearing dark brown, and is largely well-preserved in appearance. It is the highest-carbonized and largest ancient tree fossil ever discovered in China, as well as the largest, longest, and most completely preserved ancient tree fossil in Ningxia. This ancient plant, dating back over 200 million years, belongs to the genus Taimu and holds significant research and ornamental value. On April 20, 2000, the fossil was designated as a municipal-level cultural relic protection unit. Currently, the Dawukou District government is actively taking measures for its protection. A project to build an Ancient Tree Fossil Museum has been initiated by the Dawukou District Culture and Tourism Bureau, and construction has already started on the museum building, which covers a floor area of 460 square meters. It will serve as a base for natural science education for local youth.

As a natural wonder that occurs only once in a century, the question is how to present this ancient tree fossil intact to the public and how to fully protect such a national treasure. This necessitates the construction of a museum of a certain scale to ensure its preservation. Therefore, the establishment of the Ancient Tree Fossil Museum is of great significance—it is a project that benefits both the nation and the people.