As Flowering Plants Radiated, Early Mammal Varieties Declined
Wednesday, October 2, 2013 - 15:10
in Biology & Nature
The great angiosperm radiation of the mid-Cretaceous, the dramatic explosion of flowering plant species that occurred about 100 million years ago, is thought to have been good news for evolving mammals, providing them with new options for food and habitat. Previous literature suggested the spread of angiosperms, along with the evolution of pollinating insects, may have spurred an increase in the diversity of mammals. The idea made sense: The radiation would likely have resulted in more food sources from seeds, fruits, leaves and insects. Not always. read more