Balkanatolia: Discovery of ‘lost’ continent may solve mass extinction mystery

A study could explain how native Asian mammals ended up settling in another continent

Discovery of ‘lost’ continent may solve mystery of mass ancient mammal extinction event (Getty Images)

New research has uncovered a “lost” continent that may have served as an ancient corridor between Asia and Europe, ultimately triggering a mass extinction event 34 million years ago.

According to a study from journal Earth-Science Reviews, the low-lying landmass wedged between Asia, Africa and Europe - dubbed Balkanatolia - acted as a passageway for mammals to cross over from Asia into south Europe.

This is believed to have given rise to a sudden eradication of native species, known as the Grande Coupure.