Shellfish Deposits Reveal Pangea's Ancient Weather

Shellfish deposits from 300-million-years ago can be used to determine the climate of what was once super continent Pangea, GSA Scientists revealed in a recent news release. 

GSA Scientist Andy Roark and his colleagues are using 300-million-year-old shellfish deposits discovered in a shallow sea in present day West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania in their study to determine weather and climate. The ancient deposits may help Roark and his colleagues find clues about the weather on mega continent Pangea. 

Roark along with his colleagues decided to do a test designed to determing if super continent Pangea underwent strong massive seasonal changes in wind direction, especially during times of high sea level. 

During their experiment, each shell underwent keen microscopic inspection by Roark and his team.

The researchers then modeled a record of seasonal differences during the lifetimes of the organisms. Their data showed the region had hardly experienced any type of seasonal changes – especially in rainfall and in temperature, which meant that they were frail. 

The research could help scientists predict future climate change. 

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