Cambrian Explosion
캄브리아기 대폭발
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<speciesfyi-glossary slug="cambrian-explosion"></speciesfyi-glossary>Definition
The rapid diversification of complex animal life approximately 540 million years ago, producing most major animal phyla.
Detailed Explanation
Before the Cambrian Explosion, life was predominantly microbial. The sudden appearance of most animal phyla in the fossil record within roughly 20 million years remains one of paleontology's most debated questions. Proposed triggers include rising oxygen levels, evolution of eyes driving predator-prey arms races, and genetic toolkit innovations enabling body-plan diversification. The Cambrian set the template for animal diversity that persists today.