Micropaleontology

Today was my first practical as a second year undergraduate for the module of Major Events in the History of Life. It was called 'To see a world in a grain of sand...' and has completely opened my eyes.

Using sand from Dogs Bay, Galaway, and a stereomicroscope, I observed the skeltal remains of micro-organisms and matched them up in order to name and identify what exact microfossil was.

I was able to distinguished sponge spicules, gastropods, sea urchin spines, foraminifera in the form of Textulaira, Gaudryina, Cibicides and Elphidium, and ostracods too - all of which were below 1mm in size, so very challenging when 'picking' individual specimens from the Dogs Bay sand slide.

Grace enjoying a challenge

Luke concentrating


Myself in utter awe


Dogs Bay sand


I think I have found my niche!

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