Abstract
Modern depositional systems are characterized by a complex interaction of numerous physical, biological, and chemical processes, including wave energy, tidal flux, storm influence, fluvial-sediment input, subaqueous vs. subaerial exposure, salinity, temperature, substrate consistency, water turbidity, oxygenation, and other physicochemical factors. These factors can be very difficult to discern and apply to paleoenvironmental interpretations of the rock record. Ichnology constitutes a valuable tool in diagnosing many of these physico-chemical parameters in ancient systems, particularly when integrated with sedimentological and stratigraphic analysis. Trace fossils are unique because they are not merely paleontologic entities but also biogenic sedimentary structures, and they must be evaluated in this sense. The integration of both sedimentological and ichnological data constitutes a powerful tool in the interpretation of ancient depositional systems. The ichnofacies paradigm offers critical information about the conditions operating during deposition or during colonization of stratigraphic discontinuities. One of the strengths of the ichnofacies concept lies in its ease of integration with classical physical sedimentologic facies analysis, and its adherence to Walther's Law.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
