Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Volcanic Eruption Reshaped Earth, Triggered Extinctions

4/4/2025

25 2

Summary

Story summary

The dramatic split of South America and Africa 135 million years ago unleashed a staggering 3.8 million cubic miles of magma, reshaping the planet's climate and leading to mass extinctions. Researchers propose that a mantle plume ignited this volcanic fury, and deciphering the eruption's timing could shed light on its profound environmental impact.

1 of 1

Story summary

The dramatic split of South America and Africa 135 million years ago unleashed a staggering 3.8 million cubic miles of magma, reshaping the planet's climate and leading to mass extinctions. Researchers propose that a mantle plume ignited this volcanic fury, and deciphering the eruption's timing could shed light on its profound environmental impact.