Fig. 4: Contiguous clusters of network representing the post-Cambrian fossil record.

We apply the dynamic programming algorithm of “Methods” to the unipartite genus-genus network population (lower bar) and the bipartite genus-location network population (upper bar) described in “Results” to identify key time intervals with distinct fossil assemblages. The clusters inferred by the algorithm are represented with distinct colors, and the networks, one per each post-Cambrian geological stage, are separated by white lines. Boundaries between geological periods, i.e., larger scale rock units⁵⁵, are indicated by dashed vertical black lines. The five major mass extinction events⁵⁶ are shown in dotted vertical red lines.