Surviving the ‘Great Dying’: revealing the Early Triassic vertebrate ecosystems of Tasmania

This project tackles a significant global research gap by investigating Early Triassic vertebrate ecosystems (252–247 Ma) in Tasmania, a critical period and palaeolatitude (~76°S) poorly represented in the global fossil record. Our primary aims are to discover new vertebrate fossils, document and analyse known localities, uncover hidden morphological data through high-resolution 3D modelling, and reconstruct post-Permian-Triassic extinction biotic recovery in this unique polar setting. Expected outcomes include expanding our understanding of the origin of modern vertebrate diversity, creating invaluable digital heritage resources for public access and future research, and fostering enduring collaborations with the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community to protect and share Tasmania's prehistoric past.

Funder: UNE Internal Funding Scheme for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) and Mid-Career Researchers (MCRs)
Awarded amount: A$6,248.00