Molecular fossils, mass extinctions and the rise of complex algae

We live in a period of dramatic ecological change. Rising temperatures, nutrient discharge into the oceans and removal of important species from ecosystems already have massive impact on Australias marine life. Yet, we lack knowledge about the role of one of the most essential drivers of ecosystems collapse, microalgae and cyanobacteria. These small but critical organisms form the base of the foodweb, generating all energy and carbon that flow through marine ecosystems. However, rising water temperatures can lead to the collapse of this phytoplankton, resulting in blooms of disaster species that produce toxins and deplete oxygen levels. The collapse at the base of the food chain may drive oceans towards tipping points and cause animal extinction. This project aims to illuminate the role of these carbon fixing organisms during the most severe mass extinction event in Earths history that was triggered by global warming 252 million years ago. The project endeavours to benefit