Science News Roundup: South African fossils reveal ancient beast's epic journey to oblivion
Scientists said on Monday fossils unearthed in South Africa provide a peek into this drama, telling the tale of an apex predator that over multiple generations migrated halfway around the world in a desperate, and ultimately failed, bid to survive.
Following is a summary of current science news briefs.
South African fossils reveal ancient beast's epic journey to oblivion
It was a dire moment for life on Earth. Runaway global warming triggered by calamitous volcanism in Siberia inflicted the worst mass extinction on record - dooming perhaps 90% of species - roughly 252 million years ago at the end of the Permian Period. Unlike the asteroid 66 million years ago that ravaged the dinosaurs, this extinction event unfolded over a protracted time span, with species perishing one by one as conditions worsened. Scientists said on Monday fossils unearthed in South Africa provide a peek into this drama, telling the tale of an apex predator that over multiple generations migrated halfway around the world in a desperate, and ultimately failed, bid to survive.
(With inputs from agencies.)
- READ MORE ON:
- South African
- South Africa
- Siberia
- Earth
ALSO READ
South African president extends central bank governor's term, appoints new deputy governor
South African president extends central bank governor's term, appoints new deputy
South African parliament speaker takes special leave over corruption inquiry
South African SEZ turning to clean energy while improving operational efficiency
Fresh off Grammy success, South African star Tyla releases debut album