The Triassic period is a geologic time period that occurred approximately 252 to 201 million years ago. It is the first period of the Mesozoic era and follows the Permian period. The Triassic period is characterized by the recovery and diversification of life following the mass extinction event at the end of the Permian period. It was a time of significant evolutionary developments, including the emergence of the first dinosaurs, mammals, and modern coniferous plants. The climate during the Triassic period was generally hot and arid, with large areas of land covered by vast deserts. Research in the Triassic period focuses on understanding the environmental conditions, evolutionary processes, and biodiversity during this important time in Earth's history.