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Lycophytes' Nocturnal Photosynthesis Key to Surviving Mass Extinction

4/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

A University of Leeds study shows lycophytes survived the Permian-Triassic mass extinction by using CAM photosynthesis to absorb carbon dioxide at night.
This nocturnal CO2 uptake conserved water during extreme heat, enabling lycophytes to thrive where other plants failed.
Researchers analyzed 485 fossil specimens and carbon isotopes to link ancient lycophytes to modern relatives.
The findings suggest understanding these survival strategies may help predict future vegetation responses to climate change.

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Story summary

A University of Leeds study shows lycophytes survived the Permian-Triassic mass extinction by using CAM photosynthesis to absorb carbon dioxide at night.
This nocturnal CO2 uptake conserved water during extreme heat, enabling lycophytes to thrive where other plants failed.
Researchers analyzed 485 fossil specimens and carbon isotopes to link ancient lycophytes to modern relatives.
The findings suggest understanding these survival strategies may help predict future vegetation responses to climate change.