Neoproterozoic

The Neoproterozoic is a geological period that occurred between about 1 billion and 541 million years ago. It is significant for the emergence of complex life forms, including the first multicellular organisms. During this time, the Earth experienced major climatic changes, including ice ages, one of which was so severe it may have led to a "Snowball Earth" scenario. This period set the stage for the dramatic evolutionary developments of the Cambrian explosion, when many new life forms appeared. Neoproterozoic rocks and fossils provide important insights into Earth’s early environment and the origins of life.