This podcast explores dark and light topics, including sensory deprivation studies, bioluminescence in ocean creatures, using tilapia fish skin for burn victims, sneezing during sleep, the game of Goalball, and the importance of light in various aspects of life.
The importance of light in human existence extends beyond visibility and has a significant impact on mental well-being.
Bioluminescence is a widespread phenomenon in the ocean, showcasing the incredible diversity and complexity of marine life.
Deep dives
The Importance of Light in Human Existence
Light plays a crucial role in human existence, not only for providing visibility, but also for maintaining sanity. The lack of natural light can have detrimental effects on mental well-being. It is necessary to understand the significance of light and ensure access to natural light sources for a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Bioluminescence: Nature's Light Show in the Ocean Depths
The phenomenon of bioluminescence, where organisms produce light, is widespread in the ocean. Most marine creatures, including fish, squid, and shrimp, have the ability to emit light. This adaptation serves multiple purposes such as attracting mates, finding food, and defending against predators. The dazzling displays of light in the dark depths of the ocean reveal the amazing diversity and complexity of life.
Belivia Nuts: The True Origin of Brazil Nuts
Despite popular belief, the majority of Brazil nuts actually come from Belivia, not Brazil. Belivia is the leading producer of these nuts, which are harvested in the wild in the Amazon rainforest. The dangerous and labor-intensive process of collection makes it important to acknowledge the true origin of these nuts and recognize the efforts of the skilled workers who ensure their availability. From now on, let's call them Belivia nuts to give credit where it's due.
The Fascinating Paradox of Scientific Naming
The system of scientific naming, introduced by Carl Linnaeus, aims to categorize and label all living things. However, this approach clashes with the evolutionary nature of life, as organisms constantly change and adapt over time. Linnaeus' desire to assign definitive names to creatures in their unchangeable forms overlooks the dynamic nature of evolution. It highlights the complexity and unpredictability of the natural world.
In the week of the solstice – the shortest or longest day of the year depending on your latitude - Unexpected Elements brings you tales of darkness and light.
We hear about the dark history of sensory deprivation studies and why up until now, we’ve been in the dark about light’s role in the fairly fundamental process of evaporation.
We’ll be shining a light on the darkest oceans, meeting the fantastical creatures who can turn their bodies into flashlights.
Our Under the Radar story this week also comes from the sea as we discover how fish skin is helping to treat burn victims in Brazil.
We have an Ask the Unexpected question about why we don’t sneeze when we’re asleep, and more of your emails and voicenotes about obscure sports, tunnel living and earworms.
We even find time to wonder why the Brazil nut isn’t called the Bolivia nut.
Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Camilla Mota and Chhavi Sachdev
Producer: Ben Motley, with Dan Welsh
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