
 The Audio Long Read
 The Audio Long Read Strange and wondrous creatures: plankton and the origins of life on Earth
 Sep 30, 2024 
 Ferris Jabr, a journalist specializing in environmental issues, dives into the fascinating world of plankton and their foundational role in marine ecosystems. He unveils how these tiny organisms are crucial for the ocean's health and the existence of complex life on Earth. The discussion highlights the impact of environmental changes on plankton blooms and their historical significance in shaping our planet's climate and human civilization. Jabr paints a vivid picture of a world without plankton, reminding us of their indispensable contribution to life. 
 Chapters 
 Transcript 
 Episode notes 
 1  2  3  4  5 
 Intro 
 00:00 • 2min 
 The Vital Role of Plankton in Ocean Ecosystems 
 02:05 • 10min 
 The Impact of Environmental Changes on Plankton Blooms 
 12:00 • 3min 
 The Crucial Role of Plankton in Earth's Ecosystem and Human History 
 14:30 • 13min 
 The Essential Role of Plankton in Earth's Ecosystems 
 27:33 • 3min 

