Silurian Period

The Silurian period is a geological period that lasted from approximately 443 million years ago to 419 million years ago. It is named after the ancient Celtic tribe of the Silures.

Geology

The Silurian period is characterized by the diversification of marine life, with the appearance of the first jawed fish. It was a time of relatively stable and warm climate, with sea levels rising and falling several times throughout the period.

Key Events

• Biodiversity Increase: The Silurian saw a significant increase in biodiversity, with the emergence of diverse marine life forms including corals, brachiopods, and early fish.
• First Land Plants: The first plants began to colonize the land during the Silurian period, marking an important transition in the history of life on Earth.
• Mass Extinction: The end of the Silurian period was marked by a mass extinction event, possibly caused by a drop in sea levels and glaciation.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about the Silurian period:

1. What is the Silurian period and when did it occur?
2. What major events characterized the Silurian period?
3. How did the biodiversity change during the Silurian period?
4. What was the significance of the appearance of land plants during this period?
5. What were the possible causes of the mass extinction at the end of the Silurian period?

Remember to study the geological and biological changes that occurred during the Silurian period, as well as the impact of these changes on the evolution of life on Earth.

[Silurian] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Geologic timeScience • Eighth Grade