A study published in the Royal Society Open Science reveals that proto-frogs, such as temnospondyls, played a crucial role in surviving the devastating mass extinction event 252 million years ago. The harsh conditions during the Early Triassic period, including repeated volcanic activity, global warming, and widespread wildfires, led to the extinction of up to 90% of animal species.
However, the temnospondyls’ generalist approach proved to be a key factor in their survival. They thrived in fresh water habitats, feeding on fish and other prey, while their land-based competition struggled to survive. The study’s authors discovered that despite the intense environmental conditions, the temnospondyls showed little sign of evolution over the next five million years.
Fossil records indicate that these ancient creatures expanded across the globe, appearing in various regions including South Africa, Australia, North America, Europe, and Russia. Their ability to adapt to brief cooling periods allowed them to cross “dead zones” and expand their territory.
While the temnospondyls’ survival was largely due to their lack of evolution during this period, their inability to adapt ultimately led to their decline when dinosaurs and mammals began to diversify in the Middle Triassic. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the resilience of ancient species and offer a unique perspective on the mass extinction event that shaped our planet’s ecosystem.
Source: https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/ancient-frogs-survived-earths-greatest-mass-extinction-event-by-not-adapting