Aussterbevorgängen

Aussterbevorgängen, or extinction events, are significant periods in Earth's history where a large percentage of species vanish. These events are characterized by a dramatic and rapid decrease in biodiversity across the planet. They are distinct from background extinction, which is the natural, ongoing rate of species loss.

The causes of Aussterbevorgängen are varied and often involve catastrophic environmental changes. Common factors include large-scale volcanic activity, asteroid impacts, significant climate shifts, and changes in ocean chemistry. These events can lead to widespread habitat destruction, food chain collapse, and the inability of many species to adapt to the altered conditions.

Paleontological records reveal that Earth has experienced several major extinction events. The most famous include the end-Cretaceous event, which wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs, and the end-Permian event, often called the "Great Dying," which eliminated an estimated 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species.

The consequences of Aussterbevorgängen are profound. They reshape the evolutionary trajectory of life, creating opportunities for surviving species to diversify and occupy newly vacant ecological niches. The study of these events provides crucial insights into the resilience and vulnerability of life on Earth and helps inform our understanding of current biodiversity loss.