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651-3420-00L 3 Credits BSC D-ERDW
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Paleontology and Biostratigraphy

Paläontologie und Biostratigraphie

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Heinz Furrer, Dr. Wolfgang Schatz, Prof. em. Dr. Hugo Bucher, Christian Klug
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:08

Abstract

Introduction to methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Presentation of major fossil groups of interest to earth scientists with introduction to their morphology (“Bauplan”), age, Evolution, history, ecology, skeletons and their materials, applications in earth sciences to paleobiogeography and biodiversity. Analysis of the fossil record, application of biochronological methods.

Objective

Knowledge of the major methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Meaning and application of fossil groups for earth scientists. Overview over important invertebrate groups, their morphology (Bauplan), temporal distribution, evolution and ecological significance. Understanding the peculiarities of fossil sequences and the applicability of the biochronological method.

Content

History and methods in paleontology. Presentation of their morphology (Bauplan) with a focus on hard parts, temporal distribution, Schwerpunkt auf den Hartteilen, evolution and ecological significance of major fossil groups: mikro fossils, sponges, corals, cephalopods, bivalves, brachiopods, arthropods and echinoderms with respect to fossilisation, trace fossils, paleoecology, biostratigraphy, biochronology, paleobiogeography and biodiversity.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Scripts of the corresponding lectures and practicals (lab) will be handed out and additionally, PowerPoint-presentations will be available as pdfs on the internet.

Literature

Boardman, R.S., Cheetham, A.H. & Rowell, A.J. 1987: Fossil invertebrates. Blackwell. Lehmann, U. & Hillmer, G. 1997: Wirbellose Tiere der Vorzeit. Enke, Stuttgart. Prothero, D.R. 1998: Bringing Fossil to Life. WCB/McGraw-Hill. Guex, J. 1991: Biochronological correlations. Springer.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Paläontologie und Biostratigraphie
  • Tue 13:15-15:00 (CAB G 59)
  • 21.04 Date 13:15-15:00 (CAB G 61)
  • 28.05 Date 09:15-10:00 (HG D 1.1)
2 h weekly

Offered In