Question

Review the influence of mass extinctions on animal diversification. First, in one paragraph define the key geological periods in animal diversification associated with large-scale changes in diversity (3 marks). In the next paragraph, briefly describe any associations between mass extinctions and key geological periods, using several examples from Biol 227 (4 marks). In your final paragraph discuss the role of mass extinctions have had in animal diversification, focusing on key environmental changes and their consequences (3 marks).

Answer 1

there are geological periods when large scale changes in diversity taken place. animal diversity is the key thing that results large changes. diversity results in evolution. as example, during Cambrian period of the Paleozoic era , the diversification known as Cambrian explosion happened. major evolutions happened in that era. theses evolutions results in the evolve of major Animal groups present today.

at the end of cretaceous period - 66 million years ago , Triassic period - 201 million years ago , Permian period - 252 million years ago , mass extinctions happened.

these are the main geological periods where mass Extinctions happened. the end of cretaceous period is more familiar because it is the time when demise of the dinosaurs.

key role of mass extinction is evolution. in evolution reduction of diversity occurs. this is happening by the killing of specific lineages. as example, the weed species is surviving due to their diversity in diverse habitat. climate change is happening due to mass extinction.