How Cyanobacteria Took Over The World

Cyanobacteria, simple yet crucial organisms, played a pivotal role in Earth's history. They initiated the Great Oxidation Event by producing oxygen through photosynthesis, transforming the planet's atmosphere and enabling complex life. This event led to significant climate changes and extinctions. Despite their ancient origins, cyanobacteria's impact is still studied, with ongoing debates about their evolution and contributions to multicellularity.

What role do cyanobacteria play in ecosystems?

How did cyanobacteria contribute to the evolution of plants?

Describe the significance of the Great Oxidation Event.

What were the conditions of Earth during the Archean Eon?

Explain the process of oxygenic photosynthesis in cyanobacteria.

Discuss the relationship between cyanobacteria and anaerobic microorganisms.

What impact did cyanobacteria have on the planet's climate?

How did the emergence of cyanobacteria affect the evolution of aerobic metabolism?

What evidence do scientists use to study the Great Oxidation Event?

What are some of the gaps in our understanding of the Great Oxidation Event?