Bonebeds

The vertebrate fossil record extends back more than 500 million years, and bonebedsOColocalized concentrations of the skeletal remains of vertebrate animalsOCohelp unlock the secrets of this long history. Often spectacularly preserved, bonebedsOCoboth modern and ancientOCocan reveal more about life histories, ecological associations, and preservation patterns than any single skeleton or bone. For this reason, bonebeds are frequently studied by paleobiologists, geologists, and archeologists seeking to piece together the vertebrate record. Thirteen respected researchers combine their experiences in "Bonebeds, " providing readers with workable definitions, theoretical frameworks, and a compendium of modern techniques in bonebed data collection and analysis. By addressing the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of bonebed research, this edited volumeOCothe first of its kindOCoprovides the background and methods that students and professionals need to explore and understand these fantastic records of ancient life and death.a "