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The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week
Our Swolest Ancestor, Climate Fungi-pocalypse, Terrifying Bananas
Aug 30, 2023
Kasha Patel discusses Last of Us-like fungi spreading through wildfires, Rachel shares how bananas induce fear, and Sara Kiley talks about our buffest ancestor.
55:45
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Quick takeaways
- Wildfire smoke can transport harmful fungi, such as valley fever, over long distances, potentially causing respiratory issues and exacerbating the spread of fungal infections.
- Lucy, an Australopithecus afarensis specimen, demonstrated early bipedalism around 3 million years ago, challenging previous conceptions and shedding light on humankind's unique evolution and qualities.
Deep dives
Fungus and Wildfire Smoke: The Hidden Dangers
Wildfire smoke can transport harmful fungi, such as valley fever, over long distances, potentially causing respiratory issues. Fungi have the ability to adapt to higher temperatures, making them a concern in a warming climate. Some fungi can be resistant to antibiotics and difficult to treat due to their close genetic relationship to humans. Wildfires can exacerbate the spread of fungal infections, as seen with the recent increase in hospital admissions for valley fever after smoke exposure. Although a fungal pandemic like in 'The Last of Us' is unlikely, researchers are uncovering more about the adaptability and potential dangers associated with fungi.
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