Mass extinctions are sudden and widespread losses of life, often triggered by global catastrophes or climate changes. These events have shaped the history of our planet and its biodiversity. While they may seem destructive, mass extinctions also promote new species’ evolution and level the playing field for underdominant groups.
Throughout Earth’s history, there have been five major mass extinction events known as the “big five.” These include the Late Ordovician, Late Devonian, End Permian, Triassic-Jurassic, and End Cretaceous extinctions. Each event had a unique trigger: global cooling, ocean anoxia, massive volcanic eruptions, global warming, and asteroid impacts.
The most significant extinction, wiping out 99% of species that have ever lived, was the End Cretaceous mass extinction. This event led to the rise of dinosaurs and ultimately their demise in the “big six” mass extinctions, which may include human-induced global warming.
These mass extinctions highlight the dynamic nature of life on Earth, where sudden changes can shape its course.
Source: https://www.discoverwildlife.com/prehistoric-life/mass-extinctions