index fossil

/ˌɪnˈdɛks ˌfɑsəl/
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Other forms: index fossils

Definitions of index fossil
  1. noun
    a fossil known to have lived in a particular geologic age that can be used to date the rock layer in which it is found
    synonyms: guide fossil
    see moresee less
    type of:
    fossil
    the remains (or an impression) of a plant or animal that existed in a past geological age and that has been excavated from the soil
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Vocabulary lists containing index fossil

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