Laurasia

Laurasia 200Ma

Paleoglobe NO 1590 mya-vector-colors

Rodinia 900Ma

Laurasia 430Ma

Laurussia Euramerica

Laurasia 330Ma

Laurasia was the northernmost of two supercontinents (the other being Gondwana) that formed part of the Pangaea supercontinent around 300 to 200 million years ago during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras. It separated from Gondwana during the Jurassic period, eventually splitting into the continents we recognize today as North America, Europe, and Asia (excluding the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian Peninsula, which were part of Gondwana).

Formation and Breakup

Laurasia formed when Pangaea began to rift during the late Paleozoic, specifically in the Permian period. The breakup was driven by tectonic plate movements, facilitated by the presence of a mantle plume or upwelling of magma from the Earth's mantle. This process led to the formation of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP), a large igneous province that played a significant role in the breakup of Pangaea.

As Laurasia drifted northward, it eventually split into smaller landmasses due to further tectonic activities. The North Atlantic began to open, separating what would become North America and Eurasia. Meanwhile, the Tethys Sea, a large tropical body of water, expanded between the newly formed continents and Gondwana to the south.

Geology

The geology of Laurasia is complex, reflecting its history of formation, breakup, and the various environments it encompassed over millions of years. Sedimentary rocks, formed from the accumulation of sediment in ancient seas, lakes, and rivers, are prevalent in what were coastal and shallow marine environments. Fossil evidence within these rocks provides crucial information about the climate, flora, and fauna of Laurasia during different geological periods.

Climate and Environment

The climate of Laurasia varied significantly over time, influenced by its changing latitudinal position and the opening and closing of seas and oceans. During the early Mesozoic, the climate was generally warm and humid, supporting diverse ecosystems. This is evidenced by the rich fossil record, including dinosaurs, early mammals, and various plant species.

Fauna and Flora

Laurasia was home to a wide range of organisms. During the Mesozoic era, it was dominated by dinosaurs, such as the theropods and sauropods, which roamed the vast plains and forests. The flora was predominantly gymnosperms, including conifers, cycads, and ginkgoes, which were well adapted to the climate of the time.

Legacy

The breakup of Laurasia and its subsequent continental drift has had a profound impact on the Earth's geography, climate, and biodiversity. The isolation of landmasses led to the diversification of life through the process of evolution, resulting in the distinct flora and fauna found on the continents today.

See Also

• Pangaea
• Gondwana
• Plate tectonics
• Continental drift
• Mesozoic