Ancient Forest Hidden on a Treeless Island in the South Atlantic

Researchers have uncovered a buried forest beneath a treeless island in the Falkland Islands, dating back between 15 and 30 million years. During construction near Stanley, workers found well-preserved tree trunks and peat, revealing a temperate rainforest that once thrived in the region.

Microscopic analysis of pollen and wood suggests a cool, wet climate during the late Oligocene to early Miocene epochs, with evidence of species closely related to modern Patagonian forests.

Today, harsh maritime conditions and nutrient-poor soils prevent tree growth, turning the island into a grass-dominated landscape. This discovery provides valuable insights into past climate conditions, ocean currents, and wind patterns, highlighting how landscapes can shift dramatically with changing climate.

Preserving these samples may also help scientists understand future climate impacts on peatlands and carbon storage.