Uses of Trace Fossils in Genetic Stratigraphy

Trace fossils represent both sedimentological and paleontological entities and as such, constitute a unique blending of potential environmental indicators in the rock record. Trace fossils and trace fossil suites can be employed effectively to aid in the recognition and genetic interpretation of various discontinuity types. Ichnology may be employed to resolve surfaces of stratigraphic significance in two main ways: (1) through the identification of discontinuities using omission suites, comprising substrate-controlled ichnofacies (i.e., firmground Glossifungites Ichnofacies, hardground Trypanites Ichnofacies, and woodground Teredolites Ichnofacies) or palimpsest softground suites; and (2) through careful analysis of vertical softground ichnologic successions (analogous to facies successions). Integrating data derived from omission suites with paleoecological data from vertically and laterally juxtaposed softground ichnological suites greatly enhances the recognition and interpretation of potentially significant stratigraphic surfaces.