Paleontology (sometimes spelled palaeontology) is the study of the developing history of life on Earth, including ancient plants and animals based on their fossil record (evidence of their prehistoric existence as typically preserved in sedimentary rocks). This includes the study of body fossils, tracks, burrows, cast-off parts, fossilized feces ("coprolites"), and chemical residues.
Modern paleontology sets ancient life in its contexts by studying how long-term physical changes of global geography ("paleogeography") and climate ("paleoclimate") have affected the evolution of life, how ecosystems have responded to these changes and have changed the planetary environment in turn, and how these mutual responses have affected today's patterns of biodiversity. Hence, paleontology overlaps with geology, the study of rocks and rock formations, as well as botany, biology, zoology, and ecology – fields concerned with living creatures and how they interact.
More on [ Paleontology ]
Fossils :: Prehistoric Times
Biology :: Science
Geochronology :: Geology
Sedimentary Petrology :: Rocks and Minerals
Paleogeography and Paleoclimatology :: Earth Sciences
Anthropology :: Social Sciences
Archaeology :: Social Sciences

PaleoNet - A system of listservers, internet pages, and ftp sites designed to enhance electronic communication among paleontologists. While primarily designed as a resource for paleontological professionals and graduate students, PaleoNet welcomes input and participation from all persons interested in the study of ancient life.
Paleontology in the 21st Century - Summary of a 1997 meeting which outlined the current state of paleontology, and the areas which the science will encompass in the future.
Chris Clowes's Paleontology Page - Summary information on a variety of paleontological subjects, focusing on the major events in the history of life. Includes extensive links to other resources.
Meta Description: [ This page offers a general (and necessarily idiosyncratic) range of selected topics from the whole field of paleontology, with an emphasis upon major landmarks in the history of life. ]
ePalaeontology - A web portal offering information primarily of use to professional paleontologists, including links to news, articles, job openings, and field class opportunities.
Meta Description: [ Paleontological Research Online ]
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Follow a Fossil - Online museum exhibit tracing the history of a number of types of fossils from outcrop to display case. From the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
Meta Description: [ Follow a fossil from the outcrop to the museum display case and see paleontologists at work. ]
Paleontology and Fossils Resources - Offers extensive list of links about paleontology and fossils, library guides, and lists of books.
Paleozoic.org - Information about fossils, book reviews, photographic images, and Paleolist, a free email-based discussion list.
Meta Description: [ Learn about fossils. Fossil reference source. Paleolist, the fossil mailing list. Gallery of fossil photographs. Information about fossils for collectors, enthusiasts, paleontologists, dealers. ]
The Fossil Gallery - Interactive tour through the collections of the Paleontological Museum at the University of Oslo, Norway. Includes areas for plants, mammals, man, dinosaurs, fish, invertebrates, and background information.
USGS Paleontology - Site map for paleontology at the U.S. Geological Survey
Meta Description: [ Site map for paleontology at the U.S. Geological Survey ]
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