Explore the fascinating world of Middle Cambrian paleontology in this 48-minute lecture by Chad Morgan, Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Calgary. Delve into the scientific highlights of the Stephen Formation, including the renowned Burgess Shale lagerstätten in Yoho National Park. Learn about the historical significance and recent scientific advancements surrounding this formation, from Charles Walcott's early 20th-century discoveries to cutting-edge research on trilobite classification and biostratigraphy. Discover new fossil findings, such as 505-million-year-old bacterial filaments and unusual geometric trace fossils. Gain insights into the work of prominent paleontologists, the debate between splitters and lumpers, and the complexities of Middle Cambrian stratigraphy. Examine various trilobite biofacies, quantitative biostratigraphy techniques, and intriguing phosphatic small shelly fossil occurrences. This comprehensive lecture offers a deep dive into the rich paleontological history and ongoing research of the Stephen Formation.
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
The Middle Cambrian World
Middle Cambrian Stratigraphy
The Stephen Formation
The Outdoor Laboratory
Stephen Formation: Thick and Thin
Dr. Charles D. Walcott
Dr. Charles Resser the Super-Splitter Splitters vs. Lumpers
Dr. Franco Rasetti
Dr. Jim Aitken & Dr. Bill Fritz (GSC) Dr. Harry Whittington (Cambridge)
Refining Middle Cambrian Trilobite Biostratigraphy
Spatial Complications
Trilobites (Open Marine Biofacies)
Trilobites (Open to 'Restricted' Marine Biofacies)
Trilobites ( Restricted' Marine Biofacies)
Quantitative Biostratigraphy
Same Trilobite?
Phosphatic SSF Occurrence: or "Playing with Poop"
A Closer View
Phosphatic SSF Horizon
Edrioasteroid (aff. Wolcottidiscus typicalis)
Hyolithid (Chelsonella cf. vanuxemi)
Bacterial Filaments
Taught by
Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology
