Scientists may have solved 252 mn-year-old mystery behind Earth's greatest mass extinction

A new study reveals metabolism's role in Earth's greatest marine extinction event. Organisms' oxygen use and energy generation dictated survival during this ancient crisis. Warming oceans and declining oxygen levels stressed less active ancient marine life. More mobile animals with higher energy demands better survived deteriorating conditions. This ancient shift continues to shape today's diverse ocean ecosystems.

By TOI SCIENCE DESK