neucones

Neucones are a type of fossilized plant structure that are commonly found in the fossil record, particularly in the Mesozoic era. They are characterized by their distinctive, cone-like shape and are often associated with the extinct conifer family, the Araucariaceae. Neucones are typically found in sedimentary rocks and are often preserved in a three-dimensional form, which allows for detailed study of their internal structure.

The term "neucone" is derived from the Greek words "neu" meaning "new" and "kone" meaning "cone," reflecting the belief that these structures were the fossilized cones of ancient conifers. However, recent research has suggested that neucones may not be the fossilized cones of conifers, but rather the fossilized stems of a group of extinct plants known as the Bennettitales.

Neucones are important to paleontologists and botanists because they provide valuable insights into the evolution of plants and the environments in which they lived. They are also used in the study of plant anatomy and the development of plant tissues. Despite their importance, neucones are relatively rare in the fossil record, and their exact taxonomic affiliation remains a topic of ongoing debate.