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The Karooʼs globally significant fossil record, its role in understanding the evolution of life on Earth, and the opportunities it presents for research and tourism were highlighted during a presentation by Prof Bruce Rubidge at the recent Karoo Winter Wool Festival in Middelburg, Eastern Cape.
Prof Rubidge, a palaeontologist who has spent more than four decades studying fossils, addressed festivalgoers as part of the Good News Karoo speaker programme. He explained why the Karoo remains one of the worldʼs most important fossil regions.
A window into Earthʼs distant past
According to Prof Rubidge, the Karoo contains an exceptional fossil record spanning approximately 120 million years, from around 300 to 180 million years ago. The region provides scientists with evidence of how ancient species evolved over time, including the transition from reptile-like ancestors to some of the earliest mammals and dinosaurs.
“The Karoo has an amazing record of fossils,” he said, describing it as one of the few places where a continuous evolutionary record can be studied across such a long geological period. He explained that many fossils are preserved in mudstone deposits formed along ancient river systems that once crossed the region.
Karoo creates international opportunities
Prof Rubidge said the uniqueness of the Karooʼs fossil record continues to attract significant international scientific attention. “We’ve got the whole story,” he said, referring to the completeness of the fossil sequence found in the region. Researchers from around the world visit South Africa to study material that isn’t available elsewhere. He noted that growing public awareness of environmental issues and improved communication by scientists have contributed to increased interest in palaeontology over the past four decades.
During a question-and-answer session, Prof Rubidge said fossil discoveries contribute to scientific knowledge while also creating opportunities for tourism and research activities. He drew attention to the role of museums and fossil collections in supporting international collaboration and ensuring that valuable material remains accessible to researchers.
“What brings money is bringing in scientists from around the world to come and work here,” he said, “and for us to go and work with scientists in their countries.” Prof Rubidge added that the exchange of knowledge between researchers internationally is an important part of scientific progress.
Lessons from extinction events
Audience questions touched on extinction events and whether science could help prevent future species from becoming extinct. Prof Rubidge explained that many major extinction events in Earthʼs history were associated with climate change, volcanic activity, and changes in atmospheric conditions. Understanding those events, he said, helps scientists better understand modern environmental challenges. Although he said science can help societies respond to environmental pressures, he noted that large-scale extinction processes are complex and cannot be easily reversed.
The presentation concluded with a discussion on the importance of preserving South Africaʼs fossil heritage and continuing research into the Karooʼs unique geological history, which remains a source of both scientific discovery and growing public interest. – Nikilene Steenkamp, Plaas Media.
