network analysis
My exploration of trace fossils through network analysis focuses on transforming ichnological systems into networks, which consist of nodes and links. In this context, ichnotaxa are represented as nodes, while their association relationships form the links.
A key aspect of this network analysis is identifying nodes with high betweenness, which serve as topological bridges between different structural areas of the network. These nodes often correspond to ‘facies-crossing ichnogenera’, highlighting their role as connectors between different environments. This method not only enhances our understanding of ichnological systems but also provides a novel way to visualize and interpret the complex interactions among trace fossils, offering a deeper insight into their ecological and environmental contexts.
Selected papers
- Baucon, A., Neto de Carvalho, C., Felletti, F., Tosadori, G., Antonelli, A. (2021). Small-world dynamics drove Phanerozoic divergence of burrowing behaviors. Geology 49: 748–752. https://doi.org/10.1130/G48523.1
- Baucon, A., Venturini, C., Neto de Carvalho, C., Felletti, F., Muttoni, G. 2015. Behaviors mapped by new geographies: ichnonetwork analysis of the Val Dolce Formation (Lower Permian; Italy-Austria). Geosphere 11(3): 744-776. https://doi.org/10.1130/GES00994.1
- Baucon, A., Ronchi, A., Felletti, F., Neto de Carvalho, C. 2014. Evolution of Crustaceans at the edge of the end-Permian crisis: ichnonetwork analysis of the fluvial succession of Nurra (Permian-Triassic, Sardinia, Italy). Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, 410(1): 74-103. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.palaeo.2014.05.034
- Baucon A., Felletti F. 2013. The IchnoGIS method: Network science and geostatistics in ichnology. Theory and application (Grado lagoon, Italy). Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 375(1): 83-111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.palaeo.2013.02.016
