A new study suggests that ancient glaciers may have played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of complex life on Earth. By analyzing sediments from Scotland and Northern Ireland, researchers found that glaciers during the Neoproterozoic Era, known as “Snowball Earth,” delivered minerals into the ocean, altering marine chemistry and providing nutrients for life to thrive.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Chris Kirkland, says that this process may have contributed to the emergence of complex organisms, such as those with armor, shells, and spikes. Increased oxygen levels in the atmosphere and shallow ocean waters were also thought to be a key factor in this evolution boom.
However, Kirkland notes that climate change’s modern pace is happening much faster than these ancient processes, which took millions of years. The rapid warming of the planet due to human activities may have triggered large-scale changes similar to those seen during Earth’s snowball phase.
The study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between chemical links in the Earth system and how different parts are interconnected. Climate change’s progress is still mapped by studying CO2 buildup, feedback loops, and tipping points. By examining ancient climate evidence, scientists can better understand how to address modern climate challenges.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/26/science/ancient-glaciers-complex-life-on-earth/index.html