Metasequoia branchlet leaf fossil

Species: Metasequoia occidentalis   Age: Oligocene (33.9-23 million years ago)   Location: Beaver Head County, Montana   Formation: Muddy Creek Formation   This fossil belongs to the Metasequoia (Dawn Redwood) species found in the Muddy Creek Formation of Beaver Head County, Montana. The largest branchlet measures 0.9" in length. Originally thought to be extinct, the Metasequoia genus was rediscovered in China in 1941, earning it the label of a "living fossil." Today, it is primarily found in the wet lower slopes and montane river valleys of southeastern China, although it remains a popular choice for ornamental planting and arboretum collections.   Included with this specimen is an acrylic display stand.