The massive Permian extinction had wiped out many potential competitors, and continental drift had created a supercontinent, Pangaea, that stretched from pole to pole. More than 550 species have been identified, and scientists estimate that more than a thousand others are yet to be discovered.

The Explorer style map uses a bright, easy to read color palette featuring blue oceans and stunning shaded relief. Details include clearly defined international boundaries, cities, physical features, rivers, and ocean floor features.