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Stenian facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Stenian Period was a long stretch of time in Earth's history. It was the last part of the Mesoproterozoic Era. This period started about 1.2 billion years ago and ended 1 billion years ago. Before the Stenian was the Ectasian Period, and after it came the Tonian Period.

What Happened During the Stenian Period?

During the Stenian Period, a huge landmass called a supercontinent began to form. This supercontinent is known as Rodinia. It was a giant puzzle piece of land that would later break apart into the continents we know today.

Early Life Forms

Scientists have found amazing fossils from around this time. These fossils show the first known eukaryotes that could reproduce sexually. Eukaryotes are living things whose cells have a nucleus, like plants, animals, and fungi. Finding these fossils helps us understand how life on Earth became more complex. These special fossils were found in the Hunting Formation on Somerset Island in Nunavut, Canada.

The Keweenawan Age

The Stenian Period also includes a time called the Keweenawan Age. This age happened about 1.1 billion years ago. It's known for a lot of volcanic activity and the formation of a large rift system, which is like a giant crack in the Earth's crust.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Período Esténico para niños

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