Global Greening in a Warmer World - What We Can Learn from Plant Fossils

Explore the fascinating world of paleobotany in this 52-minute lecture by Dr. Tammo Reichgelt from the University of Connecticut. Discover how plant fossils enable scientists to reconstruct ancient landscapes and ecosystems, providing crucial insights into the environments inhabited by dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Learn about the phenomenon of "global greening" in warmer ancient worlds, exemplified by the lush, productive forests of Cretaceous Alberta. Delve into the mechanisms behind this greening process and draw parallels with current global warming trends. Gain a deeper understanding of how studying plant fossils contributes to our knowledge of past climates and ecosystems, offering valuable perspectives on present-day environmental changes.