Scientists: Antarctica's Lost 'Supermountains' May Have Fueled the Cambrian Explosion

Analysis of 1,712 zircon grains from 12 Antarctic sites suggests a giant mountain range existed 650–450 million years ago, formed during the assembly of Gondwana. Its erosion released phosphorus, iron and carbonates, possibly boosting oxygen levels and the Cambrian explosion.

• 1,712 zircon grains from 12 Antarctic locations were analyzed
• Age peak of 650–450 million years matches Gondwana assembly
• Erosion supplied phosphorus, iron and carbonates for life
• Findings published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters