Prototaxites are something of a prehistoric mystery. They were the first giant organisms on land, towering over ancient landscapes at heights of up to 8 meters. They had smooth trunk-like pillars and no branches, leaves or flowers. And unlike trees, they had no true root system. Instead, they may have been anchored to the ground by a simple bulbous base.
Since their first fossils were discovered in the mid-19th century, scientists have argued over their place in the tree of life. Are they giant fungi, massive algae or some kind of plant? But new evidence has emerged that may help settle the matter once and for all. Or will it just add more fuel to the debate?
According to a new study published in the journal Science Advances, Prototaxites belonged to a previously unknown, now-extinct branch of life.
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