Laurasia

Definition

Laurasia was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, eventually splitting into North America, Europe, and Asia. It played a significant role in the distribution of vertebrates, including early amphibians.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Laurasia formed approximately 335 million years ago during the late Paleozoic era.
2. It included what are now North America, Europe, and Asia.
3. Laurasia's breakup began around 200 million years ago during the early Jurassic period.
4. The climate and geography of Laurasia influenced the evolution and distribution of early amphibians.
5. Fossil evidence from Laurasia provides crucial insights into the diversity of ancient vertebrates.

Review Questions

• What major landmasses were part of Laurasia?
• During which geological periods did Laurasia exist?
• How did the breakup of Laurasia affect amphibian evolution?

Related terms

Gondwana:

A supercontinent that existed alongside Laurasia, comprising South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, and India.

Pangaea:

A supercontinent that included both Laurasia and Gondwana before breaking apart in the late Mesozoic era.

Amphibians: A class of ectothermic vertebrates that typically have a life cycle involving both aquatic larval and terrestrial adult stages.