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Ancient Fossils Reveal Atlantic Ocean's Formation Secrets

5/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Fossilized mud waves uncovered off Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, are shedding light on the Atlantic Ocean's formation from 117 million years ago. These ancient contourite drifts, shaped during Gondwana's breakup, played a pivotal role in climate and ocean circulation. This discovery is vital for forecasting future climate risks tied to ocean currents.

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Story summary

Fossilized mud waves uncovered off Guinea-Bissau, West Africa, are shedding light on the Atlantic Ocean's formation from 117 million years ago. These ancient contourite drifts, shaped during Gondwana's breakup, played a pivotal role in climate and ocean circulation. This discovery is vital for forecasting future climate risks tied to ocean currents.