The last two mentioned, GC-MS and NMR, are only used to examine coprolites that leave behind organic traces or inclusions. These inclusions can often show ancient cellular structures of tissues.

   Inclusions can also be selectively studied if they are enclosed in a calcium phosphate matrix. The coprolite can be treated with acid, dissolving the matrix, isolating the inclusions.

This is a Sauropod coprolite, 40 cm's in diameter,
from the Jurassic in the Morrison Formation
in eastern Utah. It is from Emory Universities, Dinosaur Trace
fossils web site, authored (and copyright) by Anthony J. Martin.

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