The Technological Advance and Application of Coprolite Analysis

Abstract

Coprolites (mummified or fossilized feces), belonging to the group of ichnofossils, are fossilized remains of feces produced by animals. Various types of data from coprolites provide detailed evidence of the producer’s condition, like diet, intestinal microbiome, virus infection and parasites diseases. In addition, the palaeoenvironment information relevant to producers’ ecological niche can be drawn from taphonomy details the coprolites mirrored. At present, the phylogenetic clues of the producer’s population can be determined by advanced molecular biotechnologies. With the integration of multiple methods and techniques, coprolite has been widely accepted as an ideal material to study the diet, evolution, and palaeoenvironment of producers. In this paper, we reviewed the history of coprolite research, enumerated and interpreted the data recovered from coprolites, and explained their research value to palaeocoprology and evolutionary biology. Finally, we summarized the current directions of coprolite research and looked into its future prospects.

Exceptionally well-preserved crocodilian coprolites from the Late Eocene of Northern Vietnam: Ichnology and paleoecological significance

“… 5 Recent advancements have led to their extensive utilization in multidisciplinary research programs. 6 , 7 , 8 These coprolites have proven to be invaluable tools in paleobiological studies, 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 offering insights into various aspects such behavior, trophic relations, feeding habits, dietary analysis, coprophagy, digestive tract structure and function, palynology, bacteria, parasitism, and organic geochemistry, including DNA and lipids. 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 Coprolites have been recorded from throughout the Phanerozoic and from all continents since the 19th century.…”