Fossil pollen, spores, diatoms and phytoliths

Fossil pollen, spores, diatoms and phytoliths

Palynology is the study of pollen grains and spores and other micro remains of organisms that are virtually indestructible, microscopic, but easily identifiable using their morphological characteristics. Such microorganisms and others can be found in wetlands, dry paleo lakes, and archaeological and geological exposures. These microscopic remains are used to study paleoclimates and paleoenvironments ranging from seasons to millennia.