This is particularly true of former positions of terranes. All three subjects play a double role in that they are firmly anchored in both biological and in geological problem solving. Palaeosynecology is a useful tool for facies and basin analysis, but also enables us to trace changes of ecosystems through time and the fate of evolutionary novelties within their ecological framework. Finally, palaeobiogeography is not just another useful palaeogeographic tool, but also aims at understanding dispersal patterns of organisms within their evolutionary and ecological context. Needs for Future Development Taphonomy .
Most taphonomic studies are case histories in which a particular data set is analyzed.
The general significance of the results from such studies is often not clear. Taphonomy relies heavily on actualistic studies. We do not yet fully understand the significance of many taphonomic parameters. In order to develop reliable models for the interpretation of fossil material, we need more actualistic studies. Similarly, taphonomic studies require profound knowledge of sedimentological and geochemical processes.