
Fossil
A fossil is the preserved remains or evidence of ancient living organisms, such as plants, animals, or microorganisms. They form when an organism is buried quickly after death, allowing minerals to replace or encase its tissues over millions of years. Fossils provide valuable insights into Earth's past life, helping scientists study how species have evolved and how ancient environments looked. Types include bones, shells, footprints, and even preserved imprints or traces. Fossil discovery and analysis deepen our understanding of natural history, climate change, and the development of life on Earth.