Updating studies of past life and ancient ecologies using defossilized organismal proxies

The fossil record represents the world’s largest historical dataset of biodiversity. However, biomechanical and ecological potential this has been restricted by various unique barriers obstructing experimental study. Fossils are often partial, modified taphonomy, or lacking modern analogs. In past, these confined many studies to descriptive observational techniques. Fortunately, advances in computer modeling, virtual simulations, model fabrication, physical experimentation now allow ancient organisms their biomechanics be studied like never before using “Defossilized Organismal Proxies” (DOPs). Although DOPs forging new approaches integrating ecology, evolutionary biology, bioinspired engineering, application yet identified as a unique, independent methodological approach. We believe that techniques involving will continue revolutionizing paleontology how other related fields interact with draw insights from life’s history. As field moves forward, identifying framework for novel development is essential establishing best practices maximize scientific impact DOP-based experiments. perspective, we reflect on current literature innovating establish workflow explaining processes formulation, construction, validation. Furthermore, present non-specialists specialists alike. Accelerating technological host opportunities study extinct organisms. This expanding frontier paleontological research provide more holistic view evolution, natural selection breathing life into record.