Burgess Shale fossil quarry
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Burgess Shale fossil quarry
Burgess Shale fossil quarry. These rocks contain large numbers of fossils from 500 million years ago. They were formed when an avalanche of fine mud buried and preserved a large number of marine animals. The site is remarkable for the excellent preservation of invertebrates. It recorded a key moment in Earths history, the Cambrian Explosion, when an unprecedented period of evolution produced a wide diversity of body types, including those of todays animals. The site, in Canadas Rocky Mountains, was discovered in 1909 by Charles D. Walcott. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trilobite fossils are in the rocks in the foreground. Photographed at Walcott Quarry
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Media ID 6370387
© ALAN SIRULNIKOFF/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ancient Biodiversity British Columbia Burgess Shale Cambrian Explosion Canada Canadian Early Evolution Evolutionary Biology Fossil Invertebrate Fossilised Fossilized Fossils Hunter Palaeontologist Palaeontologists Quarry Researcher Researchers Rock Rocks Scientist Scientists Trilobite World Heritage Site Palaeontology Trilobites Walcott Yoho National Park
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the awe-inspiring Burgess Shale fossil quarry, a place frozen in time from 500 million years ago. These rocks hold an abundance of fossils that provide invaluable insights into Earth's history and the remarkable Cambrian Explosion. The site, nestled within Canada's majestic Rocky Mountains, was serendipitously discovered by Charles D. Walcott in 1909 and has since been designated as a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site. The image showcases the foreground adorned with trilobite fossils, offering a glimpse into the ancient world where these fascinating creatures once thrived. This snapshot is not merely a testament to their existence but also signifies an extraordinary moment when evolution unleashed an unprecedented diversity of body types, laying the foundation for today's rich tapestry of animal life. As we marvel at this photograph, we are reminded of the tireless efforts of scientists and researchers who delve deep into paleontology to unravel Earth's secrets. Their dedication allows us to comprehend our planet's evolutionary journey and appreciate its intricate biodiversity. Let this image transport you back in time as you contemplate the significance of these fossilized treasures found within Yoho National Park in British Columbia. It serves as a reminder that even amidst our modern world, traces from early eras continue to shape our understanding of life on Earth.
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