Late Devonian extinction

Definition

The late Devonian extinction was a series of events that caused significant loss of biodiversity approximately 375-360 million years ago. It primarily affected marine life, particularly reef-building organisms and armored fish.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The extinction occurred over a span of around 20 million years, with multiple pulses.
2. It is considered one of the 'Big Five' mass extinctions in Earth's history.
3. Possible causes include widespread anoxia (lack of oxygen), global cooling, and volcanic activity.
4. Approximately 70-80% of all species were wiped out during this period.
5. The extinction had profound effects on marine ecosystems, leading to the decline of coral reefs.

Review Questions

• What were some possible causes of the late Devonian extinction?
• How did the late Devonian extinction primarily affect marine ecosystems?
• Approximately what percentage of species went extinct during the late Devonian period?

Related terms

Mass Extinction: A widespread and rapid decrease in biodiversity on Earth.

Anoxia: A condition where there is an absence or deficiency of oxygen in a particular environment.

Reef-Building Organisms: Marine organisms such as corals that construct reef structures by secreting calcium carbonate.