Scientists solve mystery of Earth's greatest mass extinction 252 million years ago

A new study explains why today's beaches are covered in clam and snail shells rather than brachiopods — the answer lies in Earth's greatest mass extinction around 252 million years ago. Warming oceans and falling oxygen levels wiped out species unable to adapt, while those with more suitable body plans and metabolisms survived to dominate the seas. The findings may offer clues about how modern marine life could respond to current climate change.

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