The Biota of Early Terrestrial Ecosystems: 

The Rhynie Chert

Learning Resource Site

This module is intended to give an overview of all aspects of our present knowledge of the Rhynie chert. It is sub-divided into the following sixteen numbered sections. Many sections are further sub-divided to give detail on particular aspects of the Rhynie chert flora and fauna. Each of the main sections is a self-contained package, however greatest benefit will be gained by going through the material in numerical order.

The images included within this resource provide for the first time an extensive illustration of the content of the Rhynie chert. New discoveries will be added as they are described in the scientific literature.

Note: Unless otherwise stated the copyright of all images on this site is owned by the University of Aberdeen.

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Contents

          The Rhynie Chert: At a glance basic information

1. What is the Rhynie Chert?
2. History of research at Rhynie
3. How do we study the Rhynie Chert?
4. Age of the Rhynie Chert
5. Geology and setting
6. Mineralisation and hydrothermal alteration
7. Chert textures
8. Taphonomy of the plants and animals and their preservation
9. Silicification and the conversion of sinter to chert
10. Fossil flora
11. Fossil fauna
12. Evidence for plant/animal interactions
13. The ancient environment and modern analogues
14. Significance to science?
15. Glossary
16. Bibliography

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