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Body Fossils Definition

Body fossils are preserved remains or parts of plants and animals. For example, shells, bones, and teeth.

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The Fossil Record

LESSON MATERIALSmove

Fun Facts

  • Most dinosaur body fossils are formed through permineralization.
  • Imprints of bark and leaves are body fossils.
  • A nothosaurus fossil was found with skin and armor intact.

Why Do We Need To Know About Body Fossils

Learning about body fossils helps us know the history of life on Earth and shows us why they are important for science. Scientists use these fossils to figure out what ancient creatures looked like and where they lived. This information is very useful for studying how life has changed over time.

Also, body fossils are not just important for scientists but can help in protecting the environment, teaching people, and more. For example, they can be seen in museums to teach the public or help scientists understand how life has evolved. Body fossils help us connect the past with now, which is useful for saving different species and studying climate change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are fossils discovered?
Earth processes like erosion and earthquakes can move sediment from one location to another, often uncovering and exposing fossils. Scientists also concentrate their search efforts in areas that are known to have lots of fossils, like Utah.
How do trace fossils provide evidence of past life?
Trace fossils provide information about how an organism lived, including but not limited to how it moved, what it ate, and where it lived.
How do layers of rock provide information in the fossil record?
Over time, sediment forms layers beneath the Earth’s surface. The deeper fossils are found in the Earth’s crust, the older they are. The closer to the surface fossils are found, the younger they are.
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