The Upper Carboniferous Period is a geological epoch that is part of the Carboniferous Period, which occurred from approximately 323 to 299 million years ago. It is divided into two stages known as the Pennsylvanian and the Missourian.
The Upper Carboniferous Period is characterized by significant changes in Earth's climate, vegetation, and the formation of vast coal deposits. During this time, the Earth experienced a warm and tropical climate, with high levels of atmospheric oxygen. This led to the growth of lush forests, predominantly comprised of large, tree-like ferns, horsetails, and seed ferns.
The period is also marked by the establishment of extensive coal swamps, where the remains of these ancient plants eventually became fossilized. The accumulation and subsequent burial of these organic materials over millions of years eventually led to the formation of coal, which became a valuable source of fuel during the Industrial Revolution.
Flora was not the only notable aspect of the Upper Carboniferous Period. Reptiles started to adapt to the terrestrial environment, and the first amniotes (the group that includes mammals, reptiles, and birds) evolved. Additionally, insects, freshwater and marine organisms, and early amphibians also thrived during this time.
The Upper Carboniferous Period is of great significance to both paleontology and economic geology. The fossils discovered from this period offer valuable insights into the evolution of various plant and animal groups, while the coal deposits formed during this time have been extensively mined throughout human history.
