
invertebrate paleontology
Invertebrate paleontology is the scientific study of fossilized animals without backbones, such as mollusks, crustaceans, corals, and worms. It helps us understand the history of life on Earth by examining how these creatures evolved, adapted, and went extinct over millions of years. Studying fossils reveals past environments, climate changes, and biological diversity throughout Earth's history. This field combines principles of geology and biology to piece together the story of invertebrate life long before humans appeared, offering valuable insights into the Earth's natural past.