Seashell fossils dating back two million years found in Pedieos riverbed

Two-million-year-old seashell fossils were found in the Pedieos riverbed in Nicosia, the environment commissioner Klelia Vassiliou said on Thursday.

The “surprise” discovery was part of an on-site visit with Lakatamia’s Mayor Fotoulla Hadjipapa to assess the fly-tipping problem in the area.

“The riverbed is filled with fossils that testify the history of the place,” Vassiliou posted on her Facebook account along with pictures from the site.

The geological survey department was called at the scene to examine the fossils.

According to the commissioner’s post, the seashells fossils belong to Ostrea, Chlamys and Balanus and count two million years.

“The cleaning of the area starts tomorrow after the approval of the Water Development Department, as well as the joint effort of protection, promotion and education through our land,” Vassiliou added.

The photos posted by the commissioner also show trash thrown in the river.

Fly-tipping was highlighted by Agriculture Minister Costas Kadis on Thursday, following recent photos showing bulky waste thrown near the protected Paralimni lake. An awareness campaign is expected to launch within the year concerning the issue, while more green points are to be established for locals to get rid of unwanted items.

Nicosia has eight green points to date.

https://www.facebook.com/KlVasiliou/posts/10158251499766731