Instant Genius How climate change is disrupting nature’s ancient symbiotic relationships
May 11, 2025
Sophie Pavelle, a science writer and author of 'To Have or To Hold: Nature’s Hidden Relationships', shares her insights on the fascinating world of symbiosis. She discusses how intertwined species rely on each other for survival, revealing the delicate balance threatened by climate change and human activity. Pavelle dives into the complex relationship between Sacculina barnacles and shore crabs, and the vital role of bees and orchids amid environmental disruptions. Her passion underscores the urgent need to reconnect with and protect our natural relationships.
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Symbiosis Often Involves Parasitism
- Symbiosis includes parasitic relationships where one species benefits at some cost to the other.
- There's no known example where both species equally benefit, revealing nature's complex dependencies.
Barnacle Invades Shore Crabs
- Sacculina barnacle invades shore crabs by growing inside them and mimicking crab egg sacs.
- It can feminize male crabs, tricking them into nurturing the parasite, showcasing complex interspecies interactions.
Light and Noise Hurt Ecosystems
- Artificial light and noise pollution disrupt pollinator activity and natural interactions.
- These disruptions can break food chains, risking ecosystem stability and resilience.