Palaeontology

Abstract

Introduction to methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Presentation of major fossil groups of interest to earth scientists with introduction to their morphology, age, evolution, history, ecology, skeletons and their materials. Analyzes of the fossil record with applications to paleobiogeography, paleoecology and time scales.

Objective

Knowledge of the major methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Significance and application of fossil groups for earth scientists. Overview over important invertebrate groups, their morphology, temporal distribution, evolution and ecological significance. Understanding the properties of the fossil record and the applicability of various biochronological methods.

Content

History and methods in paleontology. Presentation of the major morphological Bauplans, with a focus on hard parts, temporal distribution, ecological significance of major fossil groups: microfossils, corals, cephalopods, bivalves, brachiopods, arthropods and echinoderms with respect to fossilisation, trace fossils, paleoecology, biostratigraphy, biochronology, paleobiogeography and biodiversity.

Resources