The code and software for trajectory analysis in ichnology: Earth-Science Reviews

This repository provides the MATLAB script (Trajectory_all.m), python codes (Python_code.zip), its compiled standalone software (Trajectory_Analysis_Version7.exe), and the benchmark input trajectory dataset (Coordinates1.txt), which are utilized for the quantitative analysis of trace fossil trail geometries. This material serves as a supplement to the paper "The Epistemic Architecture of Palaeontological Reasoning: Trace Fossil Studies as an Example" in Earth-Science Reviews, by Wang et al., 2026. The required input comprises a dual-series coordinate dataset (x, y) of the trajectory. If a persistence analysis on concentrated foraging trail is performed, an additional coordinate series (X, Y) defining the outer boundary of the foraging patch must also be provided. For predicting locomotor sizes, the analyzed trajectory does not need to be very long; however, it must encapsulate the sharpest or most abrupt directional change recorded within the trackway to reflect the biomechanical constraints. For smoothness analysis, sampling frequency must not smaller than 2 by definition, while 2 or 3 is the optimal choice. For detailed instructions, please refer to the "Read-Me File" embedded within the software.