Question

In 5 sentences, identify and describe the fossil evidence Wegener used to support the theories of continental drift and plate tectonics.

Answer 1

Alfred Wegener used several key fossil evidences to support his theories of continental drift and plate tectonics. One of the most notable examples is the fossil of the extinct reptile Mesosaurus, which was found in both South America and Africa, suggesting that these continents were once joined. Similarly, he pointed to the distribution of the Glossopteris plant fossil, which appeared in Africa, South America, Australia, and Antarctica, indicating these landmasses were once connected. Additionally, the fossils of the pig-like animal Lystrosaurus were discovered in Africa, South America, and India, reinforcing the idea of a prehistoric supercontinent. These fossil finds demonstrated that species could not have migrated across vast oceans and thus supported Wegener's assertion of continental movement over geological time.