Professor Michael Benton
Paleontologist and academic expert on mass extinctions and deep-time life; author of When Life Nearly Died and frequent commentator on the Permian extinction.
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Sep 18, 2025 • 58min
The Permian Extinction: When Life Nearly Died
Join Professor Michael Benton, a leading paleontologist specializing in mass extinctions, as he explores the catastrophic Permian Extinction that occurred 250 million years ago. Discover how 97% of life was wiped out in what’s known as ‘The Great Dying.’ Benton delves into the diverse ecosystems and bizarre creatures of the period, the volcanic eruptions that triggered this crisis, and how a mere 3% of life survived, paving the way for the rise of dinosaurs. Get ready for a thrilling journey through deep time!
