Shanwang fossils: Paleontological treasures in Shandong

Shanwang fossils, also known as Shanwang paleontological fossils, originate from Shanwang village in Linqu county, East China's Shandong province.

These fossils, formed 18 million years ago during the Miocene period, are unique in China as the only complete and diverse collection of paleontological fossils with invaluable scientific significance from that era.

The sedimentary rock layers surrounding Guma Lake in the Shanwang National Nature Reserve have played a crucial role in shaping the international understanding of the Middle Miocene biotic stages.

Known as the "Thousand Volume Book", the Shanwang fossil intrigues researchers with its paper-like layers resembling book pages. These unique fossils unveil a diverse array of prehistoric creatures such as insects, fish, birds and mammals, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The Shanwang fossil's paper-like layers resemble book pages, earning it the nickname "Thousand Volume Book". [Photo by Yi Chunying & Wang Ying for chinadaily.com.cn]

The Shanwang fossil has filled critical gaps in avian fossil records from this era and boasts unique finds such as a pregnant rhinoceros, a rare example of prenatal preservation in large vertebrates.

The oldest bird fossil in China. [Photo by Yi Chunying & Wang Ying for chinadaily.com.cn]

Beginning with Professor Yang Zhongjian's pioneering research in the 1930s, numerous scholars from prestigious institutions like the Chinese Academy of Sciences and China University of Geosciences have engaged in studies on Shanwang fossils. Their efforts have resulted in the publication of over 130 academic papers, solidifying Shanwang's reputation as a globally renowned treasure trove of fossels. (Edited by He Yuge)