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Fungal Survivors of Extinction

By Michael Alan Prestwood

Sun 22 Feb 2026
Published 3 months ago.
Updated 1 month ago.
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The mass extinction at 252 million years ago marks the Permian to Triassic boundary. Fungi are not just participants in ecosystems — they help reset the ground.

Fungal Survivors of Extinction

~252 MYA (Permian–Triassic boundary)
Massive fungal proliferation after extinction

Following the largest mass extinction in Earth’s history, fungal spores spike in the fossil record. With forests collapsing and ecosystems shattered, fungi surged — digesting the dead, recycling nutrients, resetting the biosphere.

— map / TST —

Michael Alan Prestwood
Author & Natural Philosopher
Prestwood writes on science-first philosophy, with particular attention to the convergence of disciplines. Drawing on his TST Framework, his work emphasizes rational inquiry grounded in empirical observation while engaging questions at the edges of established knowledge. With TouchstoneTruth positioned as a living touchstone, this work aims to contribute reliable, evolving analysis in an emerging AI era where the credibility of information is increasingly contested.
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Column Menu
June 2026
»COLUMN ARCHIVE
Column Research….
1. Timeline Story
Secular Spirituality Settles
2. Linked Quote
“Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”
3. Science FAQ »
What is the difference between a spiritual and empirical belief?
4. Philosophy FAQ »
What is secular spirituality?
5. Critical Thinking FAQ »
How does spirituality relate to public belief?
6. History FAQ!
Is secular spirituality supported in history and science?
Bonus Deep-Dive Article
The Material-Spiritual Framework: A Philosophy of Spirituality

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