Cenozoic Era

The Cenozoic Era is the current and most recent of the three geological eras of the Phanerozoic Eon. It began about 66 million years ago and continues to the present day.

Divisions of the Cenozoic Era

The Cenozoic Era is divided into three periods: the Paleogene, the Neogene, and the Quaternary.

Paleogene Period

The Paleogene Period spans from about 66 million years ago to 23 million years ago. It includes the Paleocene, Eocene, and Oligocene epochs.

Neogene Period

The Neogene Period spans from about 23 million years ago to 2.6 million years ago. It includes the Miocene and Pliocene epochs.

Quaternary Period

The Quaternary Period began about 2.6 million years ago and continues to the present day. It includes the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs.

Major Events

• Climate Change: The Cenozoic Era has been marked by significant climate change, including the cooling of the Earth and the development of ice ages during the Quaternary Period.
• Evolution of Mammals: The Cenozoic Era is often referred to as the "Age of Mammals" due to the diversification and dominance of mammalian life forms.
• Extinction Events: The Cenozoic Era saw the extinction of various groups of organisms, including the dinosaurs at the end of the Mesozoic Era, as well as the rise of new species and ecosystems.

Study Guide Questions

1. What are the three periods of the Cenozoic Era?
2. What are the major events that characterized the Cenozoic Era?
3. Describe the climate change that occurred during the Cenozoic Era.
4. Why is the Cenozoic Era often referred to as the "Age of Mammals"?
5. How did the Cenozoic Era impact the evolution of life on Earth?