Paleogene

The Paleogene is a geologic period that spans from about 66 to 23 million years ago. It is part of the larger Cenozoic era, which is known for the diversification of mammals, birds, and other modern animals. The Paleogene is divided into three epochs: the Paleocene, Eocene, and Oligocene.

Paleocene Epoch

The Paleocene epoch lasted from about 66 to 56 million years ago. It is known for the recovery of life after the mass extinction event that marked the end of the Mesozoic era. During this time, mammals began to diversify and spread across the globe. The climate was relatively warm and the continents were still shifting into their current positions.

Eocene Epoch

The Eocene epoch lasted from about 56 to 33.9 million years ago. This period is known for its warm climate and the presence of tropical rainforests in many parts of the world. Mammals continued to diversify, and the first modern primates and early whales appeared during this time. The Eocene also saw the rise of the first grasses and the expansion of grassland habitats.

Oligocene Epoch

The Oligocene epoch lasted from about 33.9 to 23 million years ago. During this time, the climate began to cool, leading to the expansion of grasslands and a decline in the diversity of plant-eating mammals. However, the diversity of carnivorous mammals increased, and the first apes appeared. The Oligocene marks the transition from the warmer, more tropical conditions of the earlier epochs to the cooler, drier conditions that would characterize the following Miocene epoch.

Study Guide Questions

1. What is the Paleogene and when did it occur?
2. What are the three epochs of the Paleogene?
3. What is significant about the Paleocene epoch?
4. What characterized the Eocene epoch?
5. How did the climate change during the Oligocene epoch?

Conclusion

The Paleogene was a crucial period in Earth's history, marked by significant changes in climate and the diversification of mammals and other modern animals. Understanding the events and developments of the Paleogene epoch can provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on our planet.