Earth is much more than a passive 3-D diorama or backdrop to which life forms either adapt or go extinct. Locally, regionally, and at a global planetary level, life modifies Earth environments as much as environments shape life.
Few changes have so touched vista, ecosystem and global cycling as has the evolution of the angiosperms (plants with flowers). In the lush Cretaceous forests of fern and cycad, new colors and scents arise. Intricately woven visual and chemical communication systems set the stage for myriads of flowering plants and their animal pollinators.