Answered: Why do you think there are so many more…

Applications and Investigations in Earth Science (9th Edition)

9th Edition

ISBN:9780134746241

Author:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa

Publisher:Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens, Dennis G. Tasa

Chapter1: The Study Of Minerals

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1LR

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Question

Why do you think there are so many more fossils for animals than there are for plants and fungi?

Expert Solution

Explanation:

There are a few factors that may contribute to the greater abundance of animal fossils compared to plant and fungi fossils:

Hard vs. Soft Tissue: In contrast to soft tissues like plant leaves and stems or fungus mycelia, animals often have stronger, more resilient tissues like bones, shells, and teeth, which are more likely to be preserved as fossils.
Habitat: Compared to terrestrial ecosystems where plants and fungi are more prevalent, many animals live in or near water where sediment deposition and fossil preservation are more likely to occur.
Preservation Bias: Because certain habitats, such as those with high sedimentation rates or low oxygen levels, may be more likely to meet the requirements for fossil preservation, there may be a bias in favor of animals over plants and fungi.
Research Bias: Because of the increased attention and perceived importance of animal fossils in popular culture and scientific research, there may be a bias in research in favor of their study, which results in an excessive quantity of research and funds being given to it.

The imbalance in the fossil record is most likely caused by a combination of these variables, even if each one of them is likely to some extent responsible for the abundance of animal remains.