The head, body and spines of a trilobite are attributes for species identification based on comparisons with other trilobite groups.
Finding and naming fossils is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. Amateur fossil finds have led to significant discoveries in paleontology. There are many resources that a fossil collector can arm himself with to name a species, but it takes a diligent researcher with a keen eye for detail.
The vast fossil record is only a small portion of the life that once populated the Earth, and it is only in rare instances that paleontologists are given a glimpse at soft-bodied preservation. Most classification must be done based on hard-part remains like shells and skeletons.
Instructions
1. What are the ages of the rocks and fossils in the fossil collection area?
Learn the geologic history of the region where the fossils are collected. Obtain a geologic map and history of the fossil collection area and other related publications, such as fossil monographs of known species from the area. Much of this information can be found through the Association of American State Geologists (AASG), which can provide state-specific contacts, maps, fossil lists and other publications.
2. The decoration or hinge of a bivalve may be a key characteristic in identifying its species.
Choose key characteristics for comparison if you have more than one fossil. Separate distinctive groups of fossils based on the traits of the preserved body parts. The greater the differences between groups, the more likely it is that they are individual species. Try to pinpoint major attributes of an organism to use as diagnostic traits, such as the symmetry of a brachiopod shell or the hinge area of a bivalve.
3. Many fossils have been described and named by paleontologists - use their work to determine the species within the fossil collection
Compare the attributes of the fossils to existing literature. Comparisons of all the key characteristics should be made, depending on the type of preservation, to known species from the region. Field guides from many different organizations, such as the National Audubon Society, are available, as well as regionally-specific guides, although they may not illustrate every species. Site-specific monographs can usually be found through the state geological survey.
4. Kingdom Animalia; Phylum Mollusca; Class Cephalopoda; Order Ammonitida; Family Brancoceratidae; Genus Mortoniceras; Species potternense
Name the species based on traditional taxonomy. Use Linneaus's classic systematics, or taxonomy, to name an organism to the species level -- the traditional Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species hierarchy. A species is a group of individuals that have the same characteristics and can reproduce and create viable offspring.
5. Museums, clubs, schools and local geology buffs will be able to provide help with species identification.
Get help from the pros. If you can't determine the species type, there are still some options. Take the fossil to a local geology club, a college or university's earth science department or a museum or state geological association. You can also use websites such as Fossil Web, which only require a detailed and clear photo of the fossil find for help from around the world.
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