--> Abstract: Ichnology and Uniformitarianism, by Robert W. Frey; #90961 (1978).
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Abstract: Ichnology and Uniformitarianism

Previous HitRobertTop W. Frey

Trace fossils are both paleontologic and sedimentologic entities. Thus, the relation between ichnology and uniformitarianism is complicated by a priori constraints imposed by physical and biological limitations of the uniformitarian concept. Ichnology also is hampered by logistic difficulties. Flysch trace fossils are more easily observed or studied at the outcrop, for example, than comparable traces in present deep-water sediments. Often, therefore, the past is more informative than the present--an example of "reverse uniformitarianism."

Regardless of problems, an impressive literature attests to the value of studying present-day lebensspuren in order to interpret ancient ones. However we define it, a concrete relation exists between organisms and their environments and has existed throughout the history of life on earth. Organisms and their traces show tremendous diversity of form and function, yet lebensspuren may be reduced to a relatively small number of discrete behavioral patterns: resting, crawling, feeding, dwelling, etc. This is our uniformity; it may be used equally in Cambrian rocks or modern seabeds.

The trick is to consider organisms and their lebensspuren from the organisms' viewpoint. In any given situation, what is the most fundamental aspect or purpose of that organism's behavior? How will it change with other kinds of physiologic or environmental stimuli? To what extent has that behavior evolved or changed during geologic time? If we approach ichnology from this viewpoint, then the present is indeed a key to the past.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90961©1978 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma