Ichnology: The Use of Trace Fossils in Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

Abstract

Ichnology is a fascinating field of endeavor. As with science in general, it is a process of solving mysteries–in this case, mysteries of fossil behavior. In a very real sense the ichnologist is Sam Spade or Sherlock Holmes–following footprints, searching for traces of dastardly deeds, studying artifacts, attempting to reconstruct a sequence of events from subtle clues, pursuing the identity of someone (or something) long dead. Who was the culprit? What was he/she doing? Where was he/she living, working or going? Not only intellectually intriguing, ichnology also has practical application and economic importance. In today’s frenzied quest for energy and mineral resources, exploration geologists value every tool that aids their search. Ichnologic observations and analyses can help the sedimentologist reconstruct ancient depositional environments, help the stratigrapher correlate sedimentary strata, help the paleontologist determine the nature of fossil communities, and help the geochemist determine the effect of organisms on sediment composition. This publication was written to serve as a comprehensive and intelligible introduction to ichnology for anyone with even rudimentary geologic training, whether or not that person enrolls in a formal course on the subject. The book emphasizes sedimentologic, stratigraphic and paleoecologic al aspects of ichnology.