The Triassic carbon cycle in turmoil: A 50-m.y. journey from extinction to renewal

We present a new, comprehensive carbon isotope (δ13C) compilation for the Triassic that demonstrates a strong coupling between volcanic forcing, carbon cycle stability, and the evolution of ecosystems. The first ∼25 m.y. of the Triassic were characterized by profound δ13C volatility, initiated by the Siberian Traps eruptions and concluding with perturbation linked to the Wrangellia large igneous province. Such volatility is manifested by major negative δ13C excursions as large as ∼8‰−10‰, followed by positive shifts largely reflecting enhanced carbon burial during ecosystem recovery. During the final ∼25 m.y. of the Triassic (Norian−Rhaetian), δ13C variability declined to ∼2‰, indicating a transition to long-term carbon-cycle stability. This stabilization coincided with a reduction in major environmental crises as resilient, modern-style ecosystems became firmly established.