Synopsis

How did life conquer the Earth? The answer lies buried in ancient Australian fossils, explored in "Life Explodes." Half a billion years ago, Australia remained connected to the supercontinent Gondwana. While the oceans pulsed with strange and marvelous creatures, the land above was largely devoid of life. Yet, a profound transformation was imminent. In this program, host Richard Smith unveils Earth's pioneering inhabitants: swarming arthropods that first breached the shores, and verdant plants w