PALAEOGEAN Meaning and
Definition
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Palaeogene is a term used in geology and paleontology to describe a particular geological epoch that occurred approximately 65 to 23 million years ago. It is part of the larger Cenozoic Era, which is characterized by the rise of mammals and the extinction of dinosaurs. The Palaeogene is further divided into three main epochs: the Paleocene, the Eocene, and the Oligocene.
During the Palaeogene, the Earth underwent significant changes in climate, vegetation, and geological formations. It began with a period of recovery from the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs, allowing for the diversification and radiation of many new mammal species. The climate was generally warm and tropical, with lush forests and extensive wetlands.
In terms of flora, the Palaeogene witnessed the spread of flowering plants or angiosperms, which became a dominant feature of terrestrial ecosystems. The expansion of grasslands and the emergence of modern forest types also characterized this epoch.
In the oceans, the Palaeogene was marked by the appearance of new marine species, including diverse and abundant mollusks, as well as the rise of modern-day sharks and rays.
Understanding the Palaeogene epoch is crucial for studying the evolution and ecological relationships of many present-day organisms. Its fossil record provides valuable evidence for the development of modern ecosystems and helps researchers reconstruct ancient environments and ecosystems.
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Pert. to the former conditions of the earth's surface, as revealed by geology,-distinct from the present surface of the globe, as described by geography.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PALAEOGEAN
- palaeoeean
- palaeoguan
- palaeogman
- palaeogaan
- palaeoggan
- palaeogein
- palaeogeen
- palaeogecn
- palaeogeaf
- palaeogeal
- palaeogeao
- pa laeogean
- pal aeogean
- pala eogean
- palae ogean
- palaeo gean
- palaeog ean
- palaeoge an
- palaeogea n
Etymology of PALAEOGEAN
The word "palaeogean" is derived from two root words: "palaeo" and "gean".
"Palaeo" is derived from the Greek word "palaio" (παλαιός), meaning "old" or "ancient". It is commonly used as a prefix in scientific terminology to denote something ancient or belonging to a previous era.
"Gean" is derived from the Greek word "gē" (γή), which means "earth" or "land". It is often used as a suffix in geology to describe geological periods or eras.
Therefore, the term "palaeogean" is used to describe something ancient or belonging to the early period of Earth's history. In specific contexts, it is often used to refer to the geological time period known as the Paleogene, which spans from about 66 to 23 million years ago.
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