The Mass Extinctions

Explore the extinction of trilobites, dinosaurs, and everything in between in this illuminating introduction to the “Big Five” mass extinctions and what fossils can tell us about them

Features 75 full-color images

The fossil record reveals that Earth has experienced five mass extinction events, defined as when 75 percent or more of species are believed to have died over a short interval of time. Drawing on cutting-edge science alongside 75 images and informative graphics, paleontologist Paul D. Taylor explores what are now known as the “Big Five” mass extinctions, sharing their causes, contexts, and impact on evolutionary processes. He explains findings from recent advances in geochemical research techniques and synthesizes detailed analysis of the fossil record, illustrating how these events from millions of years ago shed light on today’s biodiversity challenges.

Mass Extinctions spans from discussing dodos and dinosaurs, the icons of extinction, to considering whether a sixth mass extinction is underway. Chapters take on each of the “Big Five”—Late Ordovician, Late Devonian, Late Permian, Late Triassic, and Late Cretaceous—covering key geological sites, possible causes, and life in the aftermath and recovery before ending on human-driven quaternary extinctions and their relevance to the modern world.

More than 99% of species that have ever existed are now extinct. The visually engaging Mass Extinctions explores the profound effects mass extinctions has on the evolution of life and what we can learn from these disruptive periods.