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Patterns of generic extinction in the fossil record
1Department of the Geophysical Sciences, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA.
Paleobiology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Fossil extinction patterns across the Phanerozoic Eon show remarkable congruence, suggesting environmental changes, not biological factors, drive most extinctions. Even specialized reef organisms mirror these global extinction trends.
Area of Science:
- Paleontology
- Stratigraphy
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Extinction events throughout Earth's history have varied in intensity and selectivity.
- Understanding the drivers of mass extinctions is crucial for assessing biodiversity dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze global fossil extinction patterns across the Phanerozoic Eon.
- To investigate the congruence of extinction profiles among different taxonomic groups and habitats.
- To determine the primary drivers of Phanerozoic extinction events.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of stratigraphic records for 19,897 fossil genera.
- Comparison of extinction intensity profiles across major taxonomic classes and orders.
- Examination of extinction patterns in an ecologically homogeneous sample of reef genera.
Main Results:
- Most taxonomic classes and orders exhibit congruent patterns of extinction intensity throughout the Phanerozoic.
- An ecologically homogeneous sample of reef genera displays a similar extinction profile to broader marine biota.
- Significant departures from congruence are rare, indicating specific physiological or habitat selectivity.
Conclusions:
- Phanerozoic extinction patterns are largely driven by geographically widespread environmental perturbations, not solely biological factors.
- The congruence suggests a common response of diverse marine faunas, including reef organisms, to shared environmental stress.
- Uncommon deviations from congruence highlight specific vulnerabilities and selective pressures on certain taxa or habitats.