Saro and his team simulate the sponge and water surrounding it on a computer. In order to see the hydro dynamic patterns, we have to solve of the order of 50 billion equations. Saro thinks that the helix of water created with in the sponge could help trap and filter particles out of the water - like food or sperm for sexual reproduction. This could be an adaptation to help these animals survive in the harsh environments of the abyssal plan.
Funding for gun violence research in the US returns after a 20-year federal hiatus, and the glass sponges that can manipulate ocean currents.
In this episode:
00:45 Gun violence research is rebooted
For 20 years there has been no federally-funded research on gun violence in the US. In 2019, $25 million a year was allocated for this work. We speak to some of the researchers that are using these funds, and the questions they are trying to answer about gun violence.
Venus’ flower baskets are marine sponges that live at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. These sponges have an unusual glass skeleton that helps them gather food, and even appears to control ocean currents.
We discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, investment in non-human primate facilities, and the European Union's latest climate plan.