WWM: Clash of Titans

Walking with Monsters
Part 6
The Late Permian Period
250 MYA

The ancient continents have begun to form into one gigantic landmass, the supercontinent Pangaea – and at its heart lies the largest desert the world has ever known. Reptilians, such as the turtle-like Scutosaurus, do well in this arid climate. Early Therapsids – creatures bridging the gap between reptiles and mammals – have begun to appear, such as the little burrower Diictodon. Some of these Therapsids have grown into powerful predators, such as the Gorgonopsid called Inostrancevia.

With water a relatively scarce commodity, the amphibians are suffering. Some Labyrinthodonts still cling on, like the carnivorous Rhinesuchus. However, nothing is safe against what is coming next.

The Great Dying is coming.

The Permian Extinction is the most catastrophic extinction event in the history of the world. Up to 96 percent of all marine species will be destroyed. Terrestrial vertebrates will fare little better, as some 70 percent will go extinct. Even insects, those incredible survivors, will be decimated. It’s debatable what caused this extinction – volcanic activity, sea-level change, anoxia – but the results are a nightmare.

And yet, life will find a way…

Part 5: [link]

Part 7: [link]

(Credit for Walking with Monsters goes to Impossible Pictures and the BBC)