Ancient Oceans

4.5 billion years of Earth’s ocean history

A journey through deep time

Ancient Oceans

4.5 billion years of Earth's ocean history — from the first seas of a molten world to the reefs that face an uncertain future.

By Lewis A. Jones

With contributions from Stephen Pates

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Timescale

4500 Ma ago

1/—

4,500 Ma ago

Hadean