Geologists uncover ancient amber in Antarctica revealing lush rainforests 90 million years ago

German geologists have discovered amber, fossilized tree resin, in Antarctica, providing evidence that lush rainforests once existed near the South Pole 90 million years ago. This find, made from mud samples collected in 2017, is the first of its kind in the region. The amber reveals details about the ancient forest, including its susceptibility to parasites and wildfires. Researchers previously identified a swampy temperate rainforest environment in West Antarctica, dominated by conifers, based on other fossil evidence. Further analysis of the amber may uncover well-preserved fragments of tree bark, enhancing understanding of Antarctica's ancient ecosystems. This discovery highlights that all continents once had conditions suitable for resin-producing trees.