Poop Job in Paleontology: It’s a dirty job, but someone gotta do it!

Abstract:

The study of vertebrate coprolites, or fossil feces, has evolved over time, challenging the misconception of their low preservation potential. Recent multidisciplinary research has revealed coprolites as valuable tools in paleobiological studies, shedding light on behavior, trophic relations, feeding habits, digestive tract structure and function, palynology, bacteria, parasitism, and organic geochemistry such as DNA and lipids. Coprolites have been found on every continent and date back to the 17th century. Ichnotaxonomy, introduced in 1998, is still debated among researchers. This webinar focuses on coprolites study from the Lower Cretaceous of Tsagan-Tsab formation, providing groundbreaking insights into coprolites from Mesozoic deposits in Mongolia. It also delves into the research on well-preserved crocodilian coprolites from the Late Eocene of Northern Vietnam, discussing ichnology and paleoecological significance. Lastly, hyaena coprolites from the Pleistocene Yuanmou Basin, Yunnan China, are briefly introduced.


Speaker: Dr. RUMMY Paul

Affiliation: Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology

Time: 4:30 PM, Tuesday, Apr. 20, 2023

Venue: ZOOM 会议平台 会议 ID:312 430 8960 会议密码 PWD:666666 

ZOOM
会议 ID:312 430 8960
会议密码 PWD:666666


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