Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
5
Figure 5.10
Example of a fi eld
notebook page showing the
position of fossiliferous layers and
pollen samples on a graphic log.
The log and samples are for a
section in Assam, India. (Notebook
of Robert A. Spicer, The Open
University, UK.)
5.4.2 Sampling of bedding surfaces and
palaeoecology
Access to large bedding-plane surfaces presents opportunities
for a greater variety of fossil sampling strategies and possible
studies. The analysis of the distribution of fossil remains over a
single bedding surface is usually done by recording fossil
remains that occur in a defi ned area. Usually this area, known
as a quadrat, is a square or rectangle that is of a size
appropriate to the material and project under investigation.
Quadrats are usually distributed in such a way that each is
independent of all other quadrats as well as any pattern within
