ichnotaxonomytaxonomic

Ichnotaxonomytaxonomic is a term that can be used to describe the taxonomic aspect of ichnotaxonomy—the classification and naming of trace fossils, or ichnofossils. It refers to the framework and conventions used to organize and relate different traces, rather than the organisms that produced them.

In practice, ichnotaxonomy classifies traces based on their morphology and presumed behavior. The primary units are ichnogenera (the equivalent of biological genera) and ichnospecies (the equivalent of species). Some schemes also reference higher or informal ranks such as ichnofamilies or ichnoassemblages. Names are tied to reference traces called holotypes and paraplotype traces, and the process follows rules set by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, adapted for traces. Key concepts include diagnosing a taxon by the features of the trace, distinguishing distinct ichnotaxa from variation within a track, and recognizing that the same organism can produce multiple different traces or that similar traces can be produced by different organisms.

Well-known ichnogenera illustrate this system. Cruziana and Diplichnites are classic trace fossils described as ichnogenera, representing arthropod grazing traces and trackways, respectively. Chelichnus, Rusophycus, and Palaeodictyon are other frequently cited ichnogenera used to infer behavior and paleoenvironment. Analysts also study ichnoassemblages and ichnofabrics to interpret ancient ecosystems.

Ichnotaxonomytaxonomic work must address limitations such as preservation bias, substrate effects, and behavioral variability, which can complicate taxonomic decisions and lead to revisions in ichnotaxa.