The Permian Period

The Permian period was the final period of the Paleozoic Era, lasting from approximately 299 to 251 million years ago. It was a time of significant geological, climatic, and evolutionary changes.

Geological Changes

During the Permian period, the Earth's landmasses were joined together in the supercontinent Pangaea. This arrangement of continents had far-reaching effects on climate, ocean currents, and the distribution of plant and animal life.

Climate

The climate during the Permian period was generally arid and dry, with extensive desert regions. However, there were also periods of glaciation, especially in the southern hemisphere. These climatic fluctuations had a major impact on the evolution and distribution of species.

Life Forms

The Permian period saw the diversification of reptiles and the emergence of early mammal-like reptiles. The period ended with a mass extinction event, known as the Permian-Triassic extinction, which wiped out approximately 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species.

Study Guide

Key Concepts

• Supercontinent Pangaea
• Arid climate and desert regions
• Diversification of reptiles
• Permian-Triassic extinction event

Discussion Questions

1. How did the formation of Pangaea impact the Earth's climate?
2. What were the major evolutionary developments during the Permian period?
3. What are the leading theories about the causes of the Permian-Triassic extinction event?

Activities

1. Research and create a timeline of the major geological and biological events of the Permian period.

2. Role-play a debate between scientists discussing the potential causes of the Permian-Triassic extinction event.