Prehistoric plants refer to the various types of vegetation that existed before recorded history, primarily during the Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras. These plants include ancient ferns, cycads, and the first flowering plants, which played a crucial role in shaping Earth's ecosystems. They contributed to the formation of coal deposits and provided habitats for early animals. Many prehistoric plants were significantly different from those we see today. For example, giant clubmosses and horsetails thrived during the Carboniferous period, while ginkgoes and conifers became prominent in the Mesozoic. Understanding these plants helps scientists learn about Earth's climate and biological evolution.