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Comparative Earth history and Late Permian mass extinction
A H Knoll1, R K Bambach, D E Canfield
1Botanical Museum, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 26, 1996
Summary
Late Permian mass extinction may have been caused by anoxic deep ocean overturn, releasing carbon dioxide and impacting organisms. This mirrors conditions seen in the Neoproterozoic Era, linking ancient and recent geological events.
Area of Science:
- Paleoceanography
- Geological events
- Mass extinction events
Background:
- The late Neoproterozoic Era saw a convergence of carbon-isotopic excursions, glaciation, and unusual carbonate precipitation.
- These phenomena provide a model for understanding similar conditions on Late Permian Earth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To interpret the reprise of Neoproterozoic conditions during the Late Permian.
- To explain the link between paleoceanographic changes and mass extinction events.
Main Methods:
- Development of a paleoceanographic model.
- Analysis of stratigraphic and isotopic data.
- Comparison of Neoproterozoic and Late Permian geological records.
Main Results:
- The model suggests Late Permian anoxic deep ocean overturn introduced high carbon dioxide concentrations.
- This CO2 release affected surficial environments and atmospheric conditions.
Conclusions:
- The predicted physiological and climatic consequences align with the observed timing and selectivity of the Late Permian mass extinction.
- Ocean overturn is a plausible mechanism for the Late Permian extinction event.
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