A Coconut Fruit Fossil (Cocos L.) from the Giral Lignite Mine of Akli Formation in Western Rajasthan, India

Abstract

The palm fruit fossil Cocos L.(Arecaceae) from Giral lignite mines of the Akli Formation of the Barmer Basin is reported here for the first time. It is assessed to be of Late Paleocene - Early Eocene age. This fruit fossil is close to the species Cocos sahnii, which is today a broad seaside component that flourishes in wet conditions. Its essence reflects the surrounding seaside conditions during the depositional era in contrast to the arid and semi-arid climates. Coconut is a very significant food plant with both household and commercial value