palaeobotany

/ˌpeɪlioʊˈbɑtəni/
noun
  1. The study of ancient plants through fossil remains.
    • Palaeobotany reveals what kinds of forests existed during the age of dinosaurs.
    • By studying fossilized pollen, palaeobotany can tell us about ancient climates.
    • The scientist's work in palaeobotany helped identify the first land plants.