What do you call someone who studies forms of life existing in prehistoric times?

The study of forms of life that existed in prehistoric times falls under the field of paleontology, which focuses specifically on the analysis of fossilized remains, ancient organisms, and the environmental conditions of those eras. Paleontologists use fossils to reconstruct past life forms and their environments, contributing to our understanding of evolution, ecosystems, and the history of life on Earth. This specialization requires knowledge of biology, geology, and other sciences to interpret the data collected from fossil records.

In contrast, the other professions focus on different areas. Biologists study living organisms and their interactions with environments; geologists examine the Earth's physical structure, substances, and processes; and anthropologists explore human societies, cultures, and their development, often focusing on more recent history rather than deep prehistoric life forms. Thus, the correct identification of someone who studies ancient life is a paleontologist.