van Loon, A.J.

Institute of Geology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Makow Polnych 16, 61-606 Poznan1/2, Poland E-mail: tvanloon@amu.edu.pl

The interpretation of soft-sediment deformations can contribute much to the understanding of basin development, but is often fairly difficult. Optimum interpretation of a soft-sediment deformation structure requires (1) recognition of the deforming agent, and (2) interpretation of the precise conditions controlling the deformational activity of the deforming agent. This latter step is often neglected. An example is presented in the form of a discussion about scratches found in Early Cretaceous rocks from Spain, for which the first interpretation (recognition of the deforming agent: a dinosaur in a lake) seems correct, whereas the second step (interpretation of the precise conditions: swimming) seems at least discussional.

Keywords: dinosaurs, soft-sediment deformation, locomotion, Cretaceous, Spain