Which French geologist is considered the father of paleontology and introduced the concept of extinction to explain the disappearance of species?

George Cuvier is recognized as the father of paleontology primarily for his foundational work in studying fossilized remains and understanding the history of life on Earth. His significant contribution was the introduction of the concept of extinction, which he used to articulate how certain species could disappear from the fossil record and no longer exist in modern times. Cuvier's work defied the prevailing view of his time that all species were created simultaneously and were immutable. He demonstrated through comparative anatomy that the anatomy of extinct species could be studied, thereby providing valuable insights into evolutionary processes and the dynamics of ecosystems over geological time.

Cuvier's theories laid the groundwork for modern paleontology by emphasizing the importance of fossils as indicators of past life and environmental changes. This perspective not only expanded our understanding of life's history but also highlighted the impact of natural forces on species survival and extinction, an understanding critical to the fields of geology, biology, and ecology.