what is trace fossil
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trace_fossil
A trace fossil, also known as ichnofossil, is a type of preserved evidence of the activities of an organism rather than the actual remains of the organism itself. It provides indirect evidence of ancient life by showing traces or marks left behind by organisms.
To understand what a trace fossil is, you can follow these steps:
1. Start by searching for the term "trace fossil" in an online search engine or an educational website. This will provide you with a basic definition and information about trace fossils.
2. Look for reliable sources such as scientific articles, journals, or books on paleontology or geology. These sources will provide you with more detailed and accurate information about trace fossils.
3. Pay attention to the characteristics of trace fossils. They can include footprints, tracks, burrows, nests, feeding marks, or other traces left by organisms. These traces can be preserved in sedimentary rocks over millions of years.
4. Understand that trace fossils are valuable because they offer insights into the behavior, locomotion, feeding habits, and ecological interactions of ancient organisms. They provide evidence of past ecosystems and the interconnections between different organisms.
5. Explore examples of trace fossils, such as dinosaur footprints, worm burrows, or fossilized traces left by ancient marine creatures. These examples can help you visualize and understand what trace fossils look like and how they are identified.
Remember, the study of trace fossils is an important part of paleontology and is crucial for reconstructing the past and understanding the history of life on Earth.