Paleontology

Amber

호박

Definition

Fossilized tree resin that can preserve ancient organisms in remarkable three-dimensional detail.

Detailed Explanation

Amber preservation can maintain cellular integrity over tens of millions of years — soft tissues, colors, and even cellular organelles have been identified from Cretaceous amber inclusions. The oldest known amber inclusions are approximately 230 million years old. Ancient DNA extraction from amber-preserved specimens has been attempted but remains controversial. Baltic amber (45 Ma) and Burmese amber (100 Ma) have yielded exceptional fossil insect, plant, and feather specimens.

More in Paleontology