Mass extinction events are often associated with asteroids, but the Permian-Triassic extinction, also known as the Great Dying, was the worst loss of life in Earth’s history. About 252 million years ago, 80-90% of species were wiped out due to climate change and volcanic activity. However, a group of primitive amphibians called temnospondyls survived this catastrophic event.
Researchers have discovered that these ancient animals thrived by feeding on freshwater prey that larger predators couldn’t access, and their generalist feeding ecology allowed them to adapt to changing environments. Studies of 100 temnospondyl fossils found that they didn’t significantly change in size or function during the crisis, but instead showed a range of body sizes similar to earlier periods.
The team believes that their ability to cross the “tropical dead zone” and survive in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems was crucial to their success. They were able to feed on various prey and hide in sparse water bodies, giving them an edge over other organisms. However, this advantage didn’t last, as they began to decline by the Middle Triassic period.
The temnospondyls ultimately went extinct about 120 million years ago, but studying these ancient creatures can help scientists understand how modern amphibians will fare under today’s environmental challenges. With many species threatened due to diseases and climate change, understanding their evolutionary history is crucial for conservation efforts.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/earth-great-dying-killed-80-000500613.html