PALEONTOLOGY

Definition and Relation

to Geology

DEFINITION

Paleontology is the
scientific investigation of
the past history of life on
earth through the study of
fossil remains of animals
and plants
The term itself originates
from Greek, palaios, i.e.
"old, ancient", on i.e.
"being, creature" and
logos, i.e. "speech,
thought, study"

Paleontology is the study of fossils and is concerned not only with

their description and classification but also with an analysis of the
evolution of the organisms involved. Simple fossil forms can be
found in early Precambrian rocks as old as 3,500,000,000 years, and
it is widely considered that life on Earth must have begun before the
appearance of the oldest rocks. Paleontological research of the fossil
record since the Cambrian Period has contributed much to the
theory of evolution of life on Earth.

Several disciplines of the geologic sciences have practical benefits

for society. The geologist is responsible for the discovery of minerals
(such as lead, chromium, nickel, and tin), oil, gas, and coal, which
are the main economic resources of the Earth; for the application of
knowledge of subsurface structures and geologic conditions to the
building industry; and for the prevention of natural hazards or at least
providing early warning of their occurrence. (For further examples,
see below Practical applications.)

Sub-disciplines

Micropaleontology: Study of generally microscopic

fossils, regardless of the group to which they belong

Paleobotany: Study of fossil plants; traditionally

includes the study of fossil algae and fungi in
addition to land plants

Palynology: Study of pollen and spores, both living

and fossil, produced by land plants and protists

Invertebrate Paleontology: Study of invertebrate animal fossils,

such as mollusks, echinoderms, and others

Vertebrate Paleontology: Study of vertebrate fossils, from

primitive fishes to mammals

Human Paleontology (Paleoanthropology): The study of

prehistoric human and proto-human fossils

Taphonomy: Study of the processes of decay, preservation, and

the formation of fossils in general

Ichnology: Study of fossil tracks, trails, and footprints

Paleoecology: Study of the ecology and climate of the past, as

revealed both by fossils and by other methods

Relation to Geology

Paleontology incorporates knowledge from biology, geology,

ecology, anthropology, archaeology, and even computer science
to understand the processes that have led to the origination and
eventual destruction of the different types of organisms since life
arose.

Some of our most valuable natural resources are either composed

of fossils or derived from fossils. (Coal, Limestone, Marble,
Diatomaceous earth)

Petroleum industry - mapping and assessment of petroleum

potential based upon the analysis of fossils, generally microfossils
such as pollen and spores or marine microplanktonic forms.

Paleontologists are responsible for the assessment

of natural resources and the preservation of
irreplaceable fossil forms. This work may include the
development of environmental impact statements in
association with the construction of highways,
pipelines, buildings and other construction projects.