The Very Short Introductions Podcast The Animal Kingdom – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 33
Jun 3, 2021
Peter Holland, Linacre Professor of Zoology at Oxford, dives deep into the fascinating world of animals and their evolution. He explains how DNA analysis has radically transformed our understanding of the evolutionary tree, revealing the vast diversity of invertebrates. Holland shares his personal journey into zoology, highlights the significance of bilateral symmetry in animal development, and shines a light on the unexpected relatives humans have within the animal kingdom. Prepare to see nature in a whole new light!
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Childhood Curiosity Became A Career
- Peter Holland describes a childhood filled with keeping fish, newts, caterpillars, and moths in his bedroom.
- He says he still finds thrill in watching wildlife and collecting specimens, showing lifelong curiosity.
DNA Revealed The Shape Of The Tree
- Evolutionary trees map who is related to whom across the animal kingdom and reveal major branches and relationships.
- DNA sequencing has allowed biologists to determine the overall shape of the tree far more accurately than Darwin could.
Reassess Zoology With DNA Evidence
- Discard outdated zoology textbooks and reassess relationships using DNA-based trees.
- Use modern genetic evidence to re-evaluate assumptions about which animals are related.
