How Fossils Form
Have you ever wondered how fossils form? Today we'll consider 3 different kinds of fossils we have at the store and learn all about the fossilization process.
First up is a super cool Mosasaur skeleton from Morocco. It formed via a process called permineralization. This happens when minerals transported by water fill in the open spaces of an organism itself or its tissue leaving behind a stony cast of the organism. This is the most common form of fossilization and includes fossil bone, teeth, plants like petrified wood, and shells.
Next up is amber. Amber is classified as both a fossil and a gemstone. It’s fossil tree resin. It is hardened over millions of years and can sometimes contain insects and plants that become trapped in the sap.
Next up are trace fossils. Trace fossils can include things like footprints, fossil burrows, and even coprolite (fossilized poop). These can form in a variety of different ways.
If you want to learn more about fossils and how they form, check us out at Tyrannostorus!