Micropalaeontology and Palaeoenvironments

Description

This module develops students understanding of palaeobiology from year 1 and introduces the concepts of palaeocology and palaeoenvironmental analysis whilst instilling critical evaluation of the quality of the fossil record before interpretations are made from it. The module provides opportunity for exploration of (a) the processes of fossilisation and the importance of exceptional preservation in interpreting the fossil record, (b) environmental controls on the distribution of organisms from macro- and microfossil assemblages, and (c) practical experience of dealing with microfossil samples and interpreting microfossil data to elucidate palaeoenvironments and the rate and tempo of palaeoenvironmental change, using microsoft Excel and PAST software to quantitatively analyse fossil data.  

Assessment

• Examination
• Project report