Tectonic Plate Shifts Linked to Ancient Mass Die-Off
New research suggests that a major extinction event 513 million years ago, known as the Sinsk event, was triggered by tectonic activity around the supercontinent Gondwana, causing the drowning of ancient reefs and altering the oceans. The study, led by sedimentologist Paul Myrow, found links between rock layers in Antarctica and Australia, indicating similar geological dynamics at the time of the extinction. The uplift of mountains and the release of greenhouse gases from large igneous provinces led to a decrease in ocean circulation, resulting in the death of many organisms. This sheds light on the role of tectonics in driving mass die-offs and provides insights into potential parallels with modern climate change.