Researchers from the University of Oxford have found that marine species living at certain latitudes faced a higher risk of extinction during periods of environmental stress. The findings come from an analysis of fossil records spanning millions of years and were published on 16 January 2026, according to Oxford University.

The study examined how marine life responded to historical climate changes. Researchers focused on where species lived rather than only when extinction events occurred. As a result, they identified geographic “traps” that increased vulnerability.

🌍 Latitude Played a Critical Role

The research shows that extinction risk was not evenly distributed across the globe. Instead, species living in mid-latitude zones faced higher risks compared with those closer to the equator or the poles.

Researchers explained that these latitudinal regions often experienced stronger environmental fluctuations. Therefore, species in these zones struggled to adapt when conditions changed rapidly. Over time, this pattern appeared repeatedly in the fossil record.

📊 Evidence From Deep-Time Fossils

The team analysed fossil data covering multiple marine extinction events. They studied groups such as molluscs and other ocean-dwelling organisms to track survival and disappearance patterns.

Their analysis showed that species in mid-latitude regions often lacked nearby refuge zones. Consequently, when temperatures shifted or oxygen levels dropped, these species had fewer options to migrate or adapt. In contrast, species in tropical regions often showed greater resilience.

🧬 Why Latitude Creates “Traps”

According to the researchers, latitude influences ocean temperature stability, nutrient availability, and habitat connectivity. Mid-latitude zones often sit between stable tropical waters and colder polar regions.

As conditions changed, species in these zones became trapped between unsuitable habitats. Therefore, extinction risk increased even without sudden catastrophic events. The researchers described this effect as a latitudinal trap.

🔬 Lessons for Modern Oceans

The Oxford team said the findings have implications for modern marine ecosystems. Although the study focused on fossils, it highlights how geography shapes long-term survival.

Researchers noted that present-day climate change also affects oceans unevenly. Therefore, understanding where species face the greatest geographic constraints may help scientists assess future risks.

“Extinction risk is not only about how fast environments change, but also where species live,” the researchers noted.

🌊 Implications for Conservation Science

The study suggests conservation strategies should consider geographic vulnerability alongside temperature and habitat loss. Protecting migration pathways and connected habitats may reduce future extinction risk.

The researchers stressed that fossil records provide valuable insight into how marine life responds to long-term environmental stress. Consequently, these deep-time lessons can inform modern biodiversity planning.

📌 Conclusion From the Study

The research shows that latitude strongly influenced extinction risk for marine species in the past. Species living in mid-latitude zones faced repeated challenges during climate shifts.

By identifying these historical patterns, the Oxford-led study offers a clearer picture of how geography shapes survival. The findings add to growing evidence that extinction risk depends on both environmental change and spatial constraints.