A paleontologist is trying to understand the niche of Triceratops during the Cretaceous Period. What could she study to characterize the niche of the Triceratops?
A)fossilized plant matter found near Triceratops fossils (and dating from the same period)
B)tooth marks on fossilized Triceratops bones, to determine what animals preyed on Triceratops
C)fossilized Triceratops excrement, to determine what this animal ate
D)soil or rock samples dating from the Cretaceous Period, which could yield some information regarding climate during that time
E)All of these choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of these choices are crucial in characterizing the niche of Triceratops during the Cretaceous Period. The fossilized plant matter can indicate the types of vegetation Triceratops may have eaten, while tooth marks on Triceratops bones can suggest what animals preyed on Triceratops. Fossilized excrement can provide direct evidence of Triceratops' diet. Lastly, studying soil or rock samples can give information about the climate during that time, which can help provide context for the niche of Triceratops.

A Paleontologist Is Trying to Understand the Niche of Triceratops