Imagine a world suffocating in volcanic ash, oceans turning acidic, and life struggling to cling on. This wasn't science fiction; it was the Permian-Triassic extinction event, often called 'The Great Dying.' Around 252 million years ago, a cataclysmic volcanic eruption in what is now Siberia unleashed unimaginable amounts of greenhouse gases.
This triggered a runaway greenhouse effect, baking the planet and drastically altering ocean chemistry. Over 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species vanished, leaving behind a vastly different world. Coral reefs, once vibrant ecosystems, were decimated, and forests turned to barren landscapes.
The Great Dying serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the potential consequences of drastic environmental changes. Understanding its causes and effects is crucial for comprehending the interconnectedness of Earth's systems and the importance of protecting our planet today.
