Imprints of the Past

Suspended in Time

It is difficult for paleontologists to examine the geologic history of spiders and insects. Their fossil records are poor because these animals are usually soft-bodied and decay quickly after death. It is equally difficult to study the forms of delicate body parts, like feathers or fur, because they too deteriorate rapidly. But a natural preservative--amber, or fossilized tree resin--helps scientists discover the history of such fragile specimens. Prehistoric insects, spiders, and the parts of some organisms sometimes became trapped in sticky resin and were preserved when it hardened into amber.

Spider in amber	Feather in amber
Termite in amber	Tree leaf and flower in amber

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