The Triassic–Jurassic extinction event, also known as the Lilliput effect, was a major extinction event that occurred around 201.3 million years ago, during the Early Jurassic period. It marks the end of the Triassic period and the beginning of the Jurassic period. The Triassic–Jurassic boundary is now recognized as one of five major events in Earth’s history.
This extinction event was severe, with over 80% of all species becoming extinct. It was global in scope, with no corner of the Earth’s oceans or continents being spared. The cause of this extinction event is still a matter of debate among scientists, but there are several leading theories.
One theory suggests that a massive volcanic eruption in what is now central Siberia released huge amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, causing global warming and widespread ecological disruption. Another theory blames a large asteroid impact for triggering widespread climate change and oceanic anoxic events (where oxygen-poor water suffocates marine life).
Whatever the cause, this mass extinction paved the way for the rise of the dinosaurs and other Jurassic Period fauna. It also caused profound changes to Earth’s ecosystems that are still evident today.