Chapter 32.4, Problem 2R

Summary Introduction

To review:

The mechanism by which continental drift and the events of mass extinction have influenced the diversification of mammals.

Introduction:

The continental drift caused the fragmentation of the Gondwana land. This fragmentation caused lead to the formation of Indian oceans, Western Atlantic ocean, and South Atlantic oceans. The Gondwana land existed from about 550 million years ago (Neoproterozoic era) to about 320 million years ago (Carboniferous period). The mass extinctions took place because of the drastic environmental change in the earth’s atmosphere. Both these events led to the generation of new species.