* Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms. They are not the organisms themselves.

* They lack the characteristics of life. Fossils don't grow, reproduce, or exhibit any other signs of life. They are essentially the remnants of something that once lived.

* They are often made of stone or mineralized materials. The original organic material of the organism has been replaced or altered over time.

While fossils can be incredibly fascinating and provide valuable information about past life, they are not alive themselves.