Study Links 35 Coprolite Sites to 540-Million-Year Cambrian Boom
Updated
Updated · Defector · Aug 9
Study Links 35 Coprolite Sites to 540-Million-Year Cambrian Boom
2 articles · Updated · Defector · Aug 9
Summary
Researchers analyzing fossilized feces from 35 sites worldwide argue a “fecal revolution” helped drive the Cambrian Explosion about 540 million years ago, when most major animal groups emerged.
The study says coprolites became more diverse in size, shape and composition as early animals developed more complex digestive systems and broader diets, especially among arthropods.
That shift likely returned more nutrient-rich organic matter to ancient oceans, strengthening food webs and accelerating ecosystem growth during the late Ediacaran and early Cambrian periods.
Published in Trends in Ecology and Evolution, the work adds feces to established explanations such as rising oxygen levels and predator-prey pressures, and says the same nutrient loop still operates in oceans and on land today.