After the Mesozoic era, the Earth entered a new geological time period known as the Cenozoic era. This era began approximately 66 million years ago and continues to the present day. The Cenozoic era is often referred to as the "Age of Mammals" due to the diversification and dominance of mammalian species during this time.

One of the defining events of the Cenozoic era was the extinction of the dinosaurs at the end of the Mesozoic era. This allowed for the rapid evolution and expansion of mammalian species, leading to the development of a wide range of new forms and adaptations. Mammals began to fill ecological niches that had previously been occupied by dinosaurs, resulting in the emergence of modern mammalian groups such as primates, rodents, and carnivores.

The Cenozoic era is divided into three major time periods: the Paleogene, the Neogene, and the Quaternary. During the Paleogene period, which lasted from 66 to 23 million years ago, mammals underwent a period of rapid diversification and evolution. This period saw the emergence of many modern mammalian groups, as well as the development of key ecological relationships between species.

The Neogene period, which followed the Paleogene, lasted from 23 to 2.6 million years ago. This period was characterized by the further diversification and evolution of mammalian species, as well as the expansion of grasslands and savannas. Many modern mammalian groups, such as elephants, horses, and apes, first appeared during this time.

The most recent period of the Cenozoic era is the Quaternary, which began approximately 2.6 million years ago and continues to the present day. This period is characterized by the onset of repeated glaciations and interglacial periods, as well as the emergence of modern humans. The Quaternary period has seen significant changes in global climate and ecosystems, leading to the extinction of many species and the evolution of new ones.

In conclusion, the era that followed the Mesozoic was the Cenozoic era, also known as the "Age of Mammals." This period saw the rapid diversification and evolution of mammalian species, leading to the emergence of many modern groups and the development of key ecological relationships. The Cenozoic era is divided into three major time periods: the Paleogene, the Neogene, and the Quaternary, each marked by significant changes in global climate and ecosystems.

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