Surfing Bats, Deep Sea Bologna, Environmental Trolley Problem
Feb 26, 2025
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In this discussion, Lauren Leffer, a contributing writer for Popular Science and Scientific American, dives into the quirky world of science. She shares the fascinating story of surfing bats that manage their energy with finesse. The conversation also explores the peculiar environmental chaos caused by invasive silver carp and the ethical dilemmas it poses. Additionally, the comedic tale of a preserved bologna sandwich and its surprising implications for marine research adds a playful twist, blending humor with important ecological insights.
Silver carp's invasion poses an environmental trolley problem, threatening local ecosystems and recreational fishing in U.S. rivers.
Researchers discovered migratory bats can 'surf' on warm air fronts to optimize energy use during long-distance migrations.
An ancient bologna sandwich retrieved from a submerged submarine provided insights into microbial decay and preservation at deep-sea pressures.
Deep dives
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Surfing Bats and Migration Insights
Recent research reveals that certain bat species, particularly the common noctule, can 'surf' on warm air fronts to aid migration, which allows them to travel greater distances while conserving energy. A study tracked these bats using small sensors, which recorded their movements and environmental conditions, revealing that they often migrate ahead of incoming storms. This unique behavior exemplifies their ability to utilize weather patterns to their advantage, enabling them to embark on extensive migrations of up to 1,000 miles. By understanding these migratory patterns, researchers can gain greater insight into the ecological dynamics and conservation needs of bat populations.
The Preservation of a Submarine Sandwich
In an unusual scientific discovery, researchers found that food packed in a submarine named Alvin, which sank 5,000 feet underwater, remained surprisingly well-preserved for nearly a year. Upon retrieval, the lunchbox contained bologna sandwiches, apples, and thermoses of beef bouillon, all of which showed minimal signs of spoilage despite the intense pressure of the deep sea. The bologna, while slightly soggy, retained its structure, and the apples appeared waterlogged yet intact. This phenomenon led scientists to investigate how environmental factors at such depths might impact microbial decay, ultimately providing insights into preservation methods in aquatic ecosystems.
The Threat of Invasive Silver Carp
Silver carp, an invasive species originally introduced to the U.S. for agricultural use, have proliferated in major rivers, outcompeting native fish and disrupting local ecosystems. These fish can leap out of the water, posing a danger to boaters, and their uncontrolled population growth threatens both recreational fishing and environmental balance. Interestingly, pollution in the Chicago area has inadvertently acted as a barrier, preventing silver carp from advancing towards the Great Lakes area. However, as environmental remediation efforts improve water quality, proactive strategies are needed to avert the potential ecological disaster of these invasive fish entering the lakes.
Lauren Leffer joins the show to explain how silver carp are creating an environmental trolley problem. Plus, Laura divulges the story of the surfing bat, and Rachel talks about scientists that ate an ancient bologna sandwich.
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