UNLOVED AND UNSEEN: A CALL FOR THE INCLUSION OF UNCHARISMATIC FAUNA

Charismatic megafauna often characterize popular science illustrations of biodiversity, both of the past and present. These striking depictions, though dramatic and distinctive, are incomprehensive in its representation of an ecosystem or community. Smaller, yet biologically and geologically important organisms can provide a more holistic view of deep time. These may include distinctive index fossils (e.g. trilobites, ammonites, brachiopods) and microfossils (e.g. foraminifera, ostracods, pollen). With a wider range of fossil life publicly presented, an appreciation of broader paleontological applications may be gained.