What global change occurring between the Carboniferous period and the Permian period likely contributed to the success of the gymnosperms?

• A. An asteroid hit Earth, leading to mass extinctions that made way for gymnosperms to take over lands where other plants had perished.
• B. Reptiles decreased in diversity and were replaced with amphibians better adapted for seed dispersal.
• C. The breakup of Pangaea changed the flora and fauna of Earth dramatically.
• D. Insects developed flight.
• E. The climate became drier and warmer.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: The Carboniferous and Permian periods are part of the Paleozoic Era, with the Carboniferous occurring approximately 359 to 299 million years ago, followed by the Permian from about 299 to 252 million years ago.
2. Identify the key environmental change: During the transition from the Carboniferous to the Permian period, the Earth's climate underwent significant changes, becoming drier and warmer.
3. Consider the adaptations of gymnosperms: Gymnosperms, such as conifers, are well-adapted to drier conditions due to features like needle-like leaves and seeds that do not require water for fertilization, unlike their predecessors, the seedless vascular plants.
4. Analyze the impact of climate change on plant success: The drier and warmer climate would have reduced the prevalence of swampy environments that favored seedless vascular plants, allowing gymnosperms to thrive in the new conditions.
5. Conclude the reasoning: The adaptation of gymnosperms to drier climates likely contributed to their success and proliferation during the Permian period, as they could colonize areas that became less hospitable to other plant types.