Cenozoic Era
Neogene Period
23–2.6 Million Years Ago
The Neogene saw the spread of grasslands across continents, driving the evolution of grazing mammals with specialized teeth and running adaptations. Horses, cattle, and elephants evolved toward their modern forms. The first hominins — our earliest bipedal ancestors — appeared in Africa around 7 million years ago. The climate continued cooling, setting the stage for Pleistocene glaciations.
Environment
Climate & Environment
Continued cooling and drying. Grasslands expanded at the expense of forests. The formation of the Isthmus of Panama (~3 Mya) altered ocean circulation patterns.
Fauna & Flora
Signature Life Forms
Spread of grassland ecosystems
Diversification of grazing mammals
First hominins (Sahelanthropus, Australopithecus)
Megalodon — giant shark
Collection
