University of Edinburgh Discovers How Sea Levels and Oxygen Shaped Early Animal Life

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have created a timeline of early animal fossils, revealing a link between sea level changes, marine oxygen levels, and the emergence of early animals. By studying rocks and fossils from 580-510 million years ago, they found that fluctuations in sea levels and oxygen levels influenced the development and diversity of early sea-dwelling animals. This research provides new insights into the ancient forces that shaped life on Earth.

Key Findings

The study focused on the Ediacaran-Cambrian interval, a period 580-510 million years ago, which saw an explosion of biodiversity. Early animals from this era were sea-dwellers, living in environments with lower oxygen levels than today. The team used data from radioactive dating and geochemical information to map major fossil finds and environmental changes onto a single timeline.

Significant Bursts in Biodiversity

The research identified several significant bursts in biological diversity, known as the Avalon, White Sea, and Cambrian assemblages. These periods marked the arrival of new animal groups and the decline of others. The study also highlighted gaps in the fossil record, suggesting that current knowledge is biased by the locations where fossils have been found.

Expert Insights

Dr. Fred Bowyer from the University of Edinburgh’s School of Geosciences emphasized the importance of an integrated global approach to studying early animal evolution. PhD student Mariana Yilales Agelvis, who co-authored the study, expressed her privilege in contributing to the understanding of how sea levels influenced early animal evolution.