microfossil
/ˈmaɪkroʊˌfɑsəl/
noun
- A very small fossil, often of a tiny organism, that can only be seen with a microscope.
- Paleontologists use microfossils to learn about ancient climates.
- This rock sample contains microfossils of ancient plankton.
- By studying microfossils, scientists can date layers of sediment.