Knowra Micropaleontology Micropaleontology Micropaleontology is the study of microscopic fossils, including their identification, classification, evolution, and use in dating rocks and reconstructing past environments.
Microfossil : A fossil small enough to require magnification for detailed study, including microscopic remains of organisms and larger organisms’ parts. The field centers on these remains, whose size and origin vary widely.
Sediment sampling : The collection of sediment samples for laboratory analysis of their composition, fossils, or physical properties. Sampling successive layers provides material for tracking fossil changes through time.
Paleoceanography : The study of the history of oceans, including changes in circulation, chemistry, and biological communities. Marine microfossil assemblages record changing ocean conditions.
Coccolithophore : A marine planktonic alga that produces microscopic calcium carbonate plates called coccoliths. Its fossil plates are abundant in marine sediments and useful for dating.
Foraminifera : A group of mostly single-celled protists that commonly build shells and leave abundant marine microfossils. Their diverse shells make them among the most studied fossil groups.
Acid maceration : A laboratory technique that uses acids to dissolve selected minerals and free resistant organic or mineral particles. It can separate microfossils from rock while preserving resistant material.
Paleoclimatology : The study of past climates using geological, biological, and chemical evidence. Microfossil distributions and chemistry help reconstruct ancient climates.
Radiolaria : Single-celled marine protists, many of which form intricate mineral skeletons. Their siliceous skeletons preserve in deep-sea sediments and indicate ocean history.
Diatom : A photosynthetic alga whose cell wall is made of intricately patterned silica. Siliceous diatom fossils preserve ecological and environmental signals.
Scanning electron microscope : A microscope that scans a specimen with electrons to produce detailed images of its surface. Its high-resolution images reveal diagnostic surface structures on microfossils.
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