Extinction Events: A Timeline

The Great Dying: 252 Million Years Ago

This extinction event wiped out 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial species. Scientists believe it was caused by a combination of factors, including volcanic eruptions, global warming, and an asteroid impact.

Consequences

• Led to the rise of the dinosaurs
• Shaped the evolution of life on Earth

The End-Triassic Extinction: 201 Million Years Ago

This extinction event wiped out 80% of all species. It was likely caused by a combination of volcanic eruptions and global warming.

Consequences

• Allowed mammals to diversify and thrive
• Shaped the evolution of life on Earth

The End-Permian Extinction: 252 Million Years Ago

This extinction event wiped out 96% of all species. It was the most severe extinction event in Earth's history.

Consequences

• Led to the rise of the dinosaurs
• Shaped the evolution of life on Earth

The End-Cretaceous Extinction: 66 Million Years Ago

This extinction event wiped out 76% of all species, including the dinosaurs. It was caused by an asteroid impact.

Consequences

• Allowed mammals to become the dominant land animals
• Shaped the evolution of life on Earth

The Holocene Extinction: Present Day

This extinction event is ongoing and is caused by human activities. It is estimated that we are losing species at a rate of 1,000 to 10,000 times the background rate of extinction.

Consequences

• Loss of biodiversity
• Disruption of ecosystems

Conclusion

Extinction events have played a major role in shaping the history of life on Earth. They have led to the rise of new species, the extinction of others, and the shaping of the evolution of life on Earth. The current Holocene extinction event is a major threat to biodiversity and human well-being.