How are species defined by the palcontological species concept?

The paleontological species concept defines species based on morphological characteristics observed in fossilized remains, rather than on reproductive isolation as in other species concepts. It emphasizes the identification of distinct groups based on shared traits and differences from other groups, using criteria such as size, shape, and structural features. This concept is essential for classifying extinct species where reproductive behaviors cannot be directly studied. Consequently, paleontologists rely on the physical evidence preserved in fossils to delineate species boundaries.