CALAMITES Meaning and
Definition
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Calamites is a term that refers to a group of extinct, tree-like plants that belonged to the genus Calamites, which existed during the Carboniferous period, approximately 359 to 299 million years ago. They were part of the larger plant group known as horsetails (Equisetaceae), which still have living representatives today.
Calamites were characterized by their tall, slender stems that could reach heights of up to 30 meters (98 feet). These stems were divided into segments and had distinctive joints or nodes. The leaves of calamites were arranged in whorls along the stems and were long and narrow in shape. They possessed a central vascular bundle, which was a complex network of tissues responsible for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.
These ancient plants primarily inhabited swampy environments and played a crucial role in the formation of coal deposits during the Carboniferous period. They were able to grow densely due to their ability to reproduce through spores and by forming extensive root systems. The fossilized remains of calamites are often found preserved in ancient coal deposits and can provide valuable insights into the Earth's ancient flora and climate.
Today, the term "calamites" is primarily used in paleobotany as a way to classify and identify these extinct plants. The study of calamites contributes to our understanding of Earth's evolutionary history and the ecological dynamics of ancient ecosystems.
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In geol., fossil stems occurring in the coal-measures-so called from their resemblance to gigantic reeds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CALAMITES
- xalamites
- valamites
- falamites
- dalamites
- czlamites
- cslamites
- cwlamites
- cqlamites
- cakamites
- capamites
- caoamites
- calzmites
- calsmites
- calwmites
- calqmites
- calanites
- calakites
- calajites
- calamutes
- calamjtes
Etymology of CALAMITES
The word "calamites" has its origins in the Latin language. It derives from the Latin term "calamus", which means "reed" or "straw". "Calamites" is the plural form of this word, and it specifically refers to a group of extinct tree-like plants that resembled modern-day horsetails. These plants, belonging to the genus Calamites, thrived during the Carboniferous Period (approximately 360 to 299 million years ago) and are known for their hollow, jointed stems, similar to reeds or straws.
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