Quirks and Quarks The environmental costs of nation-building, and more…
Nov 28, 2025
Guest
Maria Strack
Guest
Alana Westwood
Guest
Liam Zari
Guest
Allison Muotri
Guest
Luke Leckie
Guest
James Napoli
Dr. James Napoli reveals the fascinating discovery of a new dinosaur species, Nanotyrannus, highlighting its unique features. Dr. Luke Leckie shares how ants cleverly redesign their nests to curb disease spread. Dr. Allison Muotri uncovers evidence of ancient lead exposure in hominins, potentially influencing human evolution. Dr. Liam Zari discusses how smallmouth bass are evolving in response to removal efforts. Lastly, Dr. Maria Strack stresses the environmental risks associated with peatland development and the permanent damage it may cause.
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Mini Tyrannosaurs Were Their Own Species
- The Dueling Dinosaurs fossil shows smaller tyrannosaurs were a distinct species, not juvenile T. rex.
- James Napoli says growth-ring bone analysis proved they were mature at smaller size, changing Tyrannosaur ecology.
Ants Remodel Nests To Curb Infection
- Ant colonies exposed to pathogens reconfigure nest architecture to limit transmission.
- Luke Leckie found tunnels spaced wider, longer travel routes, and more compartmentalization to protect brood chambers.
Design Buildings To Reduce Contact Hubs
- Learn from ant design: reduce centralized contact points to lower disease spread in buildings.
- Luke Leckie suggests multiple entrances and dispersed common areas to reduce transmission risk.