Bayburt teacher discovers tree and marine fossils

Mehmet Söyüt, a biology teacher in Bayburt, has discovered tree fossils while exploring mountainous areas as part of a personal hobby of studying stones. Söyüt identified the fossils by observing ringed structures on the stones that resemble the annual growth rings used to determine the age of trees.

Söyüt explained that these fossils formed over millions of years through a process where sand, mud, and other substances covered the organic matter, leading to petrification in an environment protected from external contact. The fossils contain various mineral compositions, including quartz, limestone, and marble, reflecting the local geological structure.

In addition to the tree fossils, Söyüt previously discovered marine fossils, including ammonites and sea snails, estimated to be approximately 150 million years old.