Photo: phys.org
"Drone Tech and Colorful Lichens Uncover Hidden Dinosaur Fossils"
A study published in Current Biology reveals that vibrant orange Lichen in Canada helps scientists using remote sensing to uncover hidden dinosaur fossil sites.
- Researchers discovered that specific Lichen species thrive on exposed dinosaur bones in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, aiding in the identification of fossil sites from above.
- Using an unmanned aerial vehicle, the team detected distinctive spectral signatures of Lichen from 30 meters, enhancing paleontology techniques in fossil exploration.
- This innovative method allows scientists to locate previously hidden fossil sites efficiently, showcasing a novel intersection of remote sensing technology and biological organisms.
Why It Matters
This discovery not only advances paleontology by improving fossil identification methods but also emphasizes the importance of ecological interactions, highlighting how species like Lichen can aid scientific research.