Chapter 29, Problem 20RQ

To determine

The important life forms that evolved during the Cenozoic era.

Answer to Problem 20RQ

The important life forms that evolved during the Cenozoic era were sspecies mammals, marine mammals, and Humans.

Explanation of Solution

After the impact of a meteor in the Mesozoic era, many species on the Earth came to extinctions. But this allowed many other species to evolve at a rapid rate. The evolution of mammals took place in this era. Land mammals like Bat, rhinos, bison, reindeer, and musk oxen began to evolve due to the suitable climatic conditions. Also, marine animals such as whales and dolphins evolved to occupy the vacant space in oceans. Moreover, humans began to evolve in the Quaternary period due to suitable climatic conditions. In North America, as the expansion of human life began, it certainly led to the extinction of mammals.

Conclusion:

The important life forms that evolved during the Cenozoic era were sspecies mammals, marine mammals, and Humans.