Fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a plant or animal from the past. Fossils can include bones, shells, footprints, or imprints left in rock. They form when organisms are buried and preserved over long periods. Some fossils show the shape of entire organisms.

Fossils are found in rocks and sediment layers on land and under water around the world. They formed over millions of years and can date back to early life on Earth. Fossils are part of Earth’s natural record.