Ologies with Alie Ward

Biomineralogy (SHELLS) with Robert Ulrich

May 12, 2021

01:03:21

Snipd AI

In this episode, Alie Ward interviews Robert Ulrich, a UCLA geochemist specializing in biomineralogy. They explore topics like the formation of shells, the differences between shells and exoskeletons, the noise you hear when you listen to a seashell, and the impact of shell collecting on sea life. They also discuss the fascinating field of biomineralogy and the challenges of mentoring junior students.

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Quick takeaways

Biomineralogy is the study of biominerals in shells, reefs, teeth, and bones, and it provides insights into an organism's environment and its ability to adapt to changing conditions.

Shells are formed through a process involving the mantle, which secretes minerals from seawater, and their shape and structure are influenced by functions, environment, and mineral availability.

Environmental stressors like carbon dioxide levels and microplastic pollution can disrupt shell growth, affect reproductive abilities, and provide valuable insights into the health of marine ecosystems.

Deep dives

Biomanorology: Exploring the Study of Biominerals

Biomanorology, also known as conschology or conchology, is the study of biominerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, or zinc, that are essential to the nutrition of humans, plants, and animals. Biomanorologists examine the microscopic properties of shell structures to understand the environmental impacts on biomineral formation. They study the composition, systematics, and exoskeletons of various marine creatures like lobsters, clams, and snails. The color, shape, and structure of shells are determined by their functions, such as protection, buoyancy control, and camouflage. By analyzing shells, scientists can gain insights into an organism's environment and its ability to adapt to changing conditions.

Introduction

4min

Biomineralogy: Exploring Minerals Formed by Living Things

5min

Exploring Biomineralogy and Lobster Shells

8min

Formation of Shells and Varying Shapes

8min

The Fascination of Shells and the Impact of Collecting on Sea Life

3min

The Impact of Shell Removal on Organisms

12min

Opals, Shells, and Chalk

15min

The Joy and Challenges of Mentoring Junior Students

9min

Bones. Shells. Reefs. Teeth. Biomineralogy. The wonderful UCLA geochemist Rob Ulrich answers a giant pile of questions such as: How do crystalline structures materialize out of thin air and water? How do squishy animals make such hard shells? What’s the difference between a shell and an exoskeleton? What’s the noise you hear when you listen to a seashell? What’s up with ocean acidification? How do you keep a fiddle leaf tree alive? How do you meet new friends without battling LA traffic? Start by becoming virtual BFFs with this -ologist, who is shella cool...

Also MAY 18th, 5pm Pacific. WARD'S DOING A VIRTUAL LIVE SHOW. Tickets available here: https://onlocationlive.com/category/ologies

Rob’s website: https://www.robertnulrich.com

Follow Rob at https://twitter.com/robertnulrich & instagram.com/biomineralogist

Queer & Trans in STEM: https://twitter.com/QueersInSTEM.

A donation went to: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/diversity/

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More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/biomineralogy

Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras

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