Paleoichnology: Traces of the Past in Alpuente

The rich paleontological heritage of the Alpuente region goes beyond direct fossil finds, delving into the fascinating world of paleoichnology. This discipline is dedicated to the study of the indirect traces that living beings left behind millions of years ago. Far from being limited to bones, these traces—known scientifically as ichnofossils—serve as a unique window into behaviors and characteristics that would otherwise remain hidden from science.

Ichnofossils encompass a wide range of evidence: from footprints and tracks to burrows dug into the substrate, eggs, and even coprolites. Analysis of these remains allows paleontologists to more accurately reconstruct the morphological characteristics, modes of locomotion, and even the vital functions and habits of the organisms that inhabited our planet in ancient times. Thanks to these clues, researchers can interpret how animals interacted with their primordial environment.

Notable Sites: Corcolilla and Cañada París

In the vicinity of Alpuente, visitors have the opportunity to explore two ichnological sites of great scientific importance, both of which have been properly preserved and showcased. At the Corcolilla site, visitors can observe more than a hundred tridactyl trackways, mostly left by small- and medium-sized theropod and ornithopod dinosaurs. Meanwhile, at the Cañada París II site, the diversity increases, allowing for the identification of tracks from both quadrupedal dinosaurs—such as sauropods—and bipeds, represented by theropods. Chronologically, these sites are situated within a geological transition period of great interest, spanning the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous.

Paleoichnology at Mupal

To delve deeper into this field of study, the Alpuente Museum of Paleontology (Mupal) has dedicated an entire display case exclusively to paleoichnology. This space allows both the general public and specialists to examine the remains of burrows excavated by worms or crustaceans in search of food or shelter. The exhibition also includes specimens of coprolites—fossilized excrement—from snakes and fish, which provide valuable information about the diet and ecosystems of these ancient inhabitants of the region. Alpuente thus reaffirms its status as an essential site for understanding how the past has left an indelible mark on our land.