Scientists studying the Permian-Triassic mass extinction find ecosystems can suddenly tip over

Damian CarringtonEnvironment editor

@dpcarringtonFri 24 Feb 2023 11.00 EST

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/24/ecosystem-collapse-wildlife-losses-permian-triassic-mass-extinction-study

The steady destruction of wildlife can suddenly tip over into total ecosystem collapse, scientists studying the greatest mass extinction in Earth’s history have found.

Many scientists think the huge current losses of biodiversity are thestart of a new mass extinction. But the new research shows total ecosystem collapse is “inevitable”, if the losses are not reversed, the scientists said.

The Permian-Triassic extinction event, known as the “Great Dying” occurred 252 million years ago. It was driven by global heating resulting from huge volcanic eruptions and wiped out 95% of life on Earth.

However, species are being lost today even faster than in any of the previousfive mass extinctionsthat have struck the planet.Wildlife is being destroyedvia the razing of natural habitats…