Basics of ichnology 1300-WPICH
The course is focused on introducing the students to the concepts, tools and application of modern ichnology.
The first part of the course will concentrate on the basic concepts of ichnology, the characteristic features of trace fossils, their preservation in the fossil record (including ichnofossil classifications) and ethology. The basic concepts of trace fossil taxonomy will be presented. The effect of this part of the course will be a summary table of ichnofossil specimens recognized during classes, including all characteristic features, etology and preservation.
The second part of the course will focus on the rules used in the analysis of trace fossil assemblages, distinguishing ichnofacies and the fundamentals of ichnofabric analysis. Trace fossil assemblages and ichnofabric will be applied in the interpretation of environmental parameters, such as: salinity, oxygenation, substrate, sedimentation rate and water turbidity. The effect of analysis of each of these parameters will be in the form of five graphic exercises.
The course will end with the presentation of palaeobiological interpretations of the trace makers based on selected examples, resulting from the analysis of the trace fossils that they produce. Example of trace fossil application in stratigraphy will also be discussed.
The course combines theoretical aspects (presented in form of short lectures) with practical classes (in form of graphic exercises, work with specimens and experiments).
Type of course
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
On completing the course, the student:
- understands the concept of ichnology, and trace fossil classifications and taxonomy;
- recognizes basic types of trace fossils;
- interprets the mode of formation of basic trace fossils;
- is capable of indicating potential trace makers;
- understands the rules of analyzing trace fossil assemblages, distinguishes ichnofacies and interprets the mode of ichnofabric formation;
- based on analysis of a trace fossil assemblage, is capable of unassisted interpretation of the sedimentary environment and variability of its components in time;
- discusses the stratigraphic potential of trace fossils.
Assessment criteria
The classes are graded based on the following conditions:
- attendance control (2 absences are allowed);
- positive grade from a written final examination;
- positive grade from team project;
The final grade is the weighted mean from the grades obtained from written examination (60%) and team project (40%).
The retake exam will be a written test with open-ended questions and identification of specimens.
Practical placement
not applicable
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: