A leaf fossil is the preserved remains or impression of a leaf from a plant that lived millions of years ago. They are from a prehistoric plant, typically found in sedimentary rock.
These fossils form when leaves are buried under sediment and undergo a process called permineralization, where minerals gradually replace the organic material, preserving the leaf's structure.
Leaf fossils are valuable to paleontologists and botanists because they provide insights into the flora of past ecosystems, climate conditions, and evolutionary history. They can reveal details about the plant's morphology, such as vein patterns, shape, and size, helping scientists identify species and understand ancient environments.