Mass Extinctions
Example of a 'long-term' mass extinction event, derived from ocean anoxia within the Cretaceous Period at Furlo (Italy).
Photos courtesy of Jeremy D. Owens
Mass Extinctions
Mass extinctions play a central role in the progression of life on Earth.
In basic terms, these dynamic events allow for the removal of older established biotic groups and open the door for a variety of new, or previously suppressed, organisms to occupy the variety of abandoned ecological niches. The geologic record indicates that there have been five major mass extinction events, where an estimated 75-95% of species have become extinct. Recent studies suggest that the Earth biosphere may be experiencing a sixth, human-induced, mass extinction. Understanding the dynamics, causes, and extent of previous mass extinction events has become a critical subject for science and society.
The mass extinction display will be located outside Rood Hall in Dinosaur Park, and will compare catastrophic (i.e. extraterrestrial bolide impact) vs. long-term (i.e. terrestrial, Earth-bound) causal mechanisms. The display will allow visitors to explore:
- Direct evidence for each causal mechanism
- The timeframe in which each event occurred
- The population and types of organisms that were affected by each event
Costs
We anticipate a total budget of $50,000 to complete the design, construction, and maintenance phases of this project.
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