Ichnology

Ichnology is the science that studies trace fossils—indirect evidence of ancient life preserved in rocks. These traces include footprints, burrows, tunnels, feeding marks, and resting places created by plants or animals. By examining these features, scientists can infer how ancient organisms lived, moved, and interacted with their environment. Ichnology helps paleontologists understand behavior, activity patterns, and ecosystems of past life, providing insights beyond what body fossils alone can offer. It is an important tool for reconstructing ancient habitats and understanding the dynamics of prehistoric life.