Around 540 million years ago, life on Earth underwent an unprecedented evolutionary burst known as the Cambrian Explosion. Before this period, most organisms were simple and microscopic, but suddenly, a vast array of complex, multicellular life forms appeared in the fossil record. This era saw the rise of arthropods, mollusks, early vertebrates, and many other groups that would eventually dominate the planet. Scientists believe this explosion of diversity was driven by environmental changes, such as increased oxygen levels, and genetic developments that allowed for more complex body structures.
Fossil sites like the Burgess Shale in Canada provide a remarkable glimpse into this time, preserving bizarre and fascinating creatures like the spiky Hallucigenia and the fearsome Anomalocaris. Many of the basic body plans that define modern animals were established during this period, making it one of the most critical turning points in evolutionary history. Without the Cambrian Explosion, the world might never have seen the incredible variety of animal life that exists today.
How long has it been since the Cambrian Explosion?
3 months,
3 days,
21h : 0m : 32s
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