ClimateAugust 13, 2026

palaeoenvironmental

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Definition

Relating to the environmental conditions and ecosystems that existed during past geological periods.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'palaios' (ancient) and 'environment'. It emerged in scientific literature in the 20th century to describe the study of prehistoric ecosystems.

In the news

The researchers suggest that penguin fossils act as biological archives that provide new data on palaeoenvironmental changes on the Antarctic Peninsula. This helps scientists better understand the region's historical climate transitions.

Ancient Penguin Fossils Offer New Window Into Antarctica's Changing Climate | Newswise

Read the full article ↗

Newswise

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