Scientists Uncover 250-Million-Year-Old Wildfire Evidence 

INDIA NEWS

By Aniket Chakraborty May 7, 2025 Arrow

Researchers analyzed shale samples rich in organic material to trace ancient wildfire activity.

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Fossil charcoal clues were first seen in India’s Raniganj Coalfield, hinting at Permian wildfires.

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Scientists used palynofacies analysis to identify in situ and transported charcoal particles.

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Advanced techniques like Raman Spectroscopy and FTIR revealed the true nature of ancient fires.

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The study showed well-preserved charcoal during sea-level drops and oxidized remains during rises.

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Findings from the Permian period refine how scientists interpret past vegetation and climate shifts.

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This research improves understanding of long-term carbon storage in Earth's crust.

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Insights could sharpen palaeoclimate reconstructions and boost carbon sequestration strategies.

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Published in ACS Omega, the study rewrites a fiery chapter of Earth's geological history.

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