Overview

• The breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana caused significant volcanic activity and chemical weathering.
• Phosphorus released from volcanic rocks acted as a natural fertilizer, boosting marine life growth.
• Increased organic matter led to oxygen-depleted 'dead zones,' causing mass marine extinctions.
• Oceanic anoxic events lasted one to two million years, profoundly impacting marine ecosystems.
• Understanding these ancient processes can inform the impact of modern human activities on marine environments.