GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Distribution. Mesosaurus was significant in providing evidence for the theory of continental drift, because its remains were found in southern Africa, Whitehill Formation, and eastern South America (Melo Formation, Uruguay and Irati Formation, Brazil), two widely separated regions.

Detailed explanation-2: -Scientists have found fossils of similar types of plants and animals in rocks of similar age. These rocks were on the shores of different continents. This suggests that the continents were once joined. For example, fossils of Mesosaurus, a freshwater reptile, have been found both in Brazil and western Africa.

Detailed explanation-3: -To him, the presence of identical fossil species along the coastal parts of Africa and South America was the most compelling evidence that the two continents were once joined.

Detailed explanation-4: -It would have been physiologically impossible for Mesosaurus to swim between the continents. This suggests that South America and Africa were joined during the Early Permian.

Detailed explanation-5: -One of these animals-an ancient freshwater reptile named Mesosaurus-could not have crossed the Atlantic Ocean. Instead, Wegener proposed that the animal lived within the rivers and lakes of a singular landmass which later broke apart. Other fossil evidence also supports the theory of continental drift.