LANZHOU - Scientists have discovered a large cluster of plant fossils dating back to 200 million years ago in Northwest China's Gansu province.

The fossils were found in a quarry in east suburbs of Baiyin district of Baiyin city, Zhang Xing, a researcher from the provincial museum, said Thursday.

The landform where the fossils were preserved had been damaged by quarrying, exposing the fossilized roots, stems and leaves of about ten types of ancient terrestrial and aquatic plants, Zhang said after an on-site investigation on Tuesday.

Zhang said the fossils have provided precious information for the study of ancient geographical conditions, environments and prehistorical life.

The quarry has suspended operations to allow the scientists to conduct further research.