During which geological periods did Xenacanthus primarily exist?
Answer
Carboniferous and Permian periods
*Xenacanthus* fossils are strongly linked to the late Paleozoic Era, specifically spanning two major geological periods: the Carboniferous and the Permian. This longevity, covering tens of millions of years, allowed this genus to persist through significant environmental transitions leading up to the massive extinction event at the end of the Permian. This specific chronological placement is crucial for paleontologists attempting to map the evolutionary timeline of early chondrichthyans, distinguishing them from fish fauna associated with later eras.
Related Questions
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