The Age of Giant Insects

The video explores the dominance of insects during the Carboniferous period, highlighting their massive numbers compared to humans. It delves into the era's giant invertebrates, such as Meganeura and Arthropleura, and explains how high oxygen levels allowed these creatures to grow large. Theories on their growth, including oxygen's role and larval adaptations, are discussed. The decline of these giants is attributed to falling oxygen levels and the emergence of decomposers. The video concludes with a sponsor message from The Great Courses Plus.

What period is known for the large size of insects and arthropods?

• Triassic

• Jurassic

• Cretaceous

• Carboniferous

What was the approximate oxygen level during the Carboniferous period?

• 21%

• 40%

• 25%

• 35%

How do modern scientists replicate ancient conditions to study arthropod growth?

• By increasing carbon dioxide levels

• By using larger enclosures

• By creating oxygen-rich environments

• By reducing temperature

What is one theory for why ancient arthropods grew so large?

• They had fewer predators

• They lived longer

• They needed to produce larger larvae

• They had more food available

What event marked the decline of giant arthropods?

• A meteor impact

• The appearance of decomposers

• A volcanic eruption

• The rise of mammals

What happened to the oxygen levels during the Permian period?

• They fluctuated

• They decreased

• They remained stable

• They increased

Which of the following is a land-based arthropod?

• Fish

• Reptile

• Arachnid

• Bird