Recent fossil discoveries are reshaping our understanding of the last days of the dinosaurs. Contrary to old beliefs, dinosaurs were not already declining before the catastrophic asteroid impact. Instead, they thrived in diverse and vibrant habitats across North America.
Dinosaurs Lived in Distinct Bioprovinces
Fossil evidence from New Mexico shows that dinosaurs lived in unique regions, or ‘bioprovinces,’ right up until their sudden extinction. This means different types of dinosaurs dominated different areas, pointing to a healthy and varied ecosystem.
The Sudden Extinction and Nature’s Recovery
The mass extinction event, caused by the asteroid, happened abruptly. There was no slow decline. Afterward, life recovered following patterns driven by climate changes. This discovery serves as a powerful reminder of how adaptable—and fragile—life on Earth can be. The study not only changes what we know about dinosaurs but also highlights the unpredictable power of global catastrophes.
Sources: Science Daily