Mesozoic Era

THE MESOZOIC ERA is one of three geologic eras of the Phanerozoic eon. Lying between the Paleozoic and the Cenozoic these three eras comprise the Phanerozoic eon. The Mesozoic was a time of tectonic, climatic, and evolutionary activity. The continents gradually shifted from a state of connectedness into [Page 642]their present configuration. The climate was exceptionally warm throughout the period, also playing an important role in the evolution and diversification of new animal species. By the end of the era, the basis of modern life was in place. The Mesozoic era extended roughly 180 million years, from 251 million years ago (Mya) to when the Cenozoic era began 65 Mya. This Era is further separated into three geologic Periods. From oldest to youngest: Triassic (251 ...