An extraordinary discovery has been made in Katot village, Sesan district, Stung Treng province, Cambodia, with the unearthing of a massive fossilized tree, locally known as "Kakir Thmar." This ancient specimen is estimated to be between 100,000 and two million years old and measures approximately 30 meters in length, with over half already excavated.
The excavation, which commenced on August 11, 2025, is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Environment, provincial authorities from Stung Treng, and local representatives. The fossil was found partially embedded within layers of clay and sandstone, a geological context that hints at the ancient processes that led to its preservation. This find is particularly significant as it represents a substantially larger fossilized wood piece than those previously discovered in the Siem Bok district, which were over 100 million years old.
Cambodia has become a notable hub for paleontological research, with the Ministry of Environment identifying 67 fossil sites across 13 provinces since 2019. These discoveries range from marine species and freshwater animals to fossilized leaves, footprints, and even the country's first dinosaur bone, with ages spanning from two million to 359 million years. The oldest fossilized wood found in Cambodia to date dates back to the Permian period, between 250 to 300 million years ago, discovered in Banteay Meanchey province.
The study of this newly discovered fossilized tree aims to yield significant research value and provide tangible benefits to the local Indigenous community. The Ministry of Environment is committed to ensuring that such discoveries contribute positively to the heritage and well-being of the people. Plans are already underway to develop the Katot village site into a tourist attraction, a move intended to foster economic opportunities and showcase the region's unique natural heritage. This remarkable find not only deepens our understanding of Cambodia's rich geological history but also underscores the importance of preserving these ancient natural wonders. The ongoing paleontological research across the nation promises to reveal more about the Earth's past, offering insights that connect ancient ecosystems to our present world and inspiring a sense of wonder about the planet's enduring story.