Features Favorable for Fossilization

Assessing the effects of both structure and predation on fossilization potential

Again, the sample food web from a wooded area 

 

Conclusions:

If one were to assume that the two factors investigated in this activity (structure and predation) were the only two that had any bearing on whether or not something got fossilized. The fossil record from this food web would most likely include organisms that were preserved in both cases. For the structure activity, the raccoon, groundhog and white-tailed deer. From the predation activity it was determined that the raccon, groundhog, robin and white-tailed deer. When considering that this food web is comprised of eight organisms and only three are likely to be fossilized, students can better understand how the fossil record is sometimes seen as incomplete. HOWEVER, the parts of the animals that are fossilized, inform geologists about other aspects of the animal's living habits and environment. For example, the shape of a fossilized raccoon could help to determine the types of food that raccoons eat, and whether they are carnivorous or herbivorous.

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