background imageImage: Unsplash

Largest mass extinction in earth’s history linked to climate chaos

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 1 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Forbes or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: A new study links the largest mass extinction 252 million years ago, during the Permian-Triassic period, to climate warming caused by volcanic activity
• This warming created extreme weather events, devastating both marine and terrestrial life, with 96% of marine and 75% of land species wiped out

🔭 The context: The study highlights how volcanic eruptions in Siberia emitted vast amounts of CO2, driving global temperatures to unprecedented levels
• The resulting "Mega-El Niño" events led to chaotic climate conditions that species could not survive or adapt to quickly enough

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The findings draw parallels between ancient climate chaos and today's rising temperatures and extreme weather events, underscoring the potential long-term consequences of unchecked global warming

⏭️ What's next: This research deepens understanding of past mass extinctions and suggests that prolonged climate instability could have profound impacts on modern ecosystems if climate change remains unaddressed

💬 One quote: "It got too hot everywhere... Species were simply not equipped to adapt or evolve quickly enough," said Dr. Alexander Farnsworth, co-lead author

📈 One stat: The Permian-Triassic extinction event wiped out 96% of marine species and 75% of land species

Click for more news covering the latest on biodiversity 

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team - providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day.

Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)