- Hot and humid climate: The Carboniferous period was a time of global warming, with average temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). This led to a number of environmental changes, including the expansion of tropical forests and the melting of glaciers. The warm and humid climate also created ideal conditions for the growth of insects, which were a major source of food for early amphibians and reptiles.
- Rising sea levels: As the glaciers melted, sea levels rose, flooding many coastal areas. This led to the loss of habitat for many marine organisms and the displacement of human and animal populations.
- Volcanic activity: The Carboniferous period was a time of increased volcanic activity, which led to the formation of new mountain ranges and the release of toxic gases into the atmosphere. The volcanic activity also caused the formation of coal beds, which are now an important source of energy.
Biological dangers
- Large insects: The Carboniferous period was home to a number of large insects, including giant cockroaches, dragonflies, and millipedes. These insects were a threat to early amphibians and reptiles, which were often their prey.
- Amphibians: The Carboniferous period was the time of the first amphibians, which were able to live both on land and in water. Amphibians were a major source of food for early reptiles, which were often their predators.
- Reptiles: The Carboniferous period also saw the rise of the reptiles, which were the first animals to lay amniotic eggs. Reptiles were able to survive in a wider variety of habitats than amphibians, and they quickly became the dominant land animals.