7. Identifying Past Droughts
Fluctuations in ancient plant DNA frequencies have become vital clues for detecting historic drought periods. These DNA shifts—often aligned with changes in pollen and charcoal records—highlight times when ecosystems collapsed or populations migrated in search of water. By combining genetic data with other evidence, scientists can more precisely reconstruct the timing and severity of ancient droughts, revealing their impact on both plants and animals. For further reading, visit PNAS.