1. Extinction: Geologic changes can lead to the extinction of species or entire groups of organisms. For example, the end-Permian mass extinction, which occurred around 252 million years ago, wiped out about 96% of all marine species and 70% of all terrestrial vertebrate species. This extinction event paved the way for the rise of the dinosaurs.
2. Speciation: Geologic changes can also lead to the formation of new species or the speciation of existing species. For example, the formation of the Isthmus of Panama about 3 million years ago connected North and South America, allowing for the exchange of species between the two continents. This led to the speciation of many animal and plant species, such as the development of the North American raccoon and the South American coati.
3. Range expansions: Geologic changes can also lead to changes in the distribution of species or organisms. For example, the formation of the Grand Canyon millions of years ago created a barrier to dispersal for many animal and plant species, resulting in the development of distinct populations on either side of the canyon.
4. Adaptations: Geologic changes can also drive the evolution of new adaptations in organisms. For example, the formation of the Rocky Mountains about 80 million years ago led to the evolution of horses with longer legs and stronger teeth, which were better suited for navigating the rough terrain.
5. Migration: Geologic changes can also prompt animals to migrate to new areas in search of more favorable conditions, particularly changes in climate.
Overall, great geologic changes can have significant impacts on plant and animal life, ranging from extinctions to adaptations to the emergence of new species. These changes have shaped the history of life on Earth and continue to affect the distribution and diversity of organisms today.