#365papers for May 20, 2017
What’s it about?
A major mass extinction terrestrial and marine animals occurred at the Triassic-Jurassic boundary. Here, the authors examine whether land plants also suffered an extinction. It appears that plants were largely unaffected.
Why does it matter?
Whether or not plants were affected during animal extinction events tells us something about the nature of the extinction. Understanding how extinction happens can help us predict and protect ourselves from future extinctions.
Why did I read this?
I lecture on mass extinctions in my introductory paleontology course. I like to stay on top of the state of the science where I can.