Final answer:
Trace fossils are conspicuous at outcrop because they provide evidence of how organisms interacted with the sediment. These fossils can provide insights into the paleoenvironment in which the organisms lived.
Step-by-step explanation:
Trace fossils are conspicuous at outcrop because they provide evidence of how organisms interacted with the sediment. Trace fossils include burrows, footprints, and even excrement. These fossils are often preserved when the sediment hardens into rock, and their presence can provide insights into the paleoenvironment in which the organisms lived.
For example, the size and shape of the burrows can suggest the depth of the water or the type of substrate present. This information can be helpful in understanding ancient habitats and ecosystems.