James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

EA3120 - The Fossil Record: Dinosaurs and Vertebrates Through Time

Subject Description

This subject will offer an extended introduction to the fossil record in relation to biosphere evolution through deep time and change in past environments with an outline of how fossils are used to interpret the history of life and Earth. The subject concentrates on fossil vertebrates and includes treatment of completeness of the fossil record, palaeo-environmental and palaeobiological interpretation of fossil remains, and broad scale evolutionary and extinction patterns through time and their interpretation. An introduction to stratigraphy provides a conceptual framework for evaluation of sequence in sedimentary rock systems, based on their layered properties and fossil contents and the interpretation of stratigraphic patterns in terms of past environments.

Learning Outcomes

• Provide a conceptual framework for the evaluation of biosphere patterns through deep time, based on the fossil record
• Discuss evolution and ecology through deep time
• Interpret common fossil categories and assemblages and understand their use as indicators of past biological systems and of episodes in Earth history
• Interpret fossils preserved in sedimentary rock systems for broad scale evidence of past environmental succession

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Field report - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Availabilities