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The Dissenter

#1074 Kevin Lala - Evolution Evolving: The Developmental Origins of Adaptation and Biodiversity

Mar 21, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kevin Lala, a Professor of Behavioral and Evolutionary Biology and co-founder of niche construction theory, dives into the complexities of evolution. He explores how interdisciplinary approaches enhance our understanding of traits like the turtle shell and the unique adaptations seen in blind Mexican cave fish. Lala challenges genetic determinism by discussing evolutionary plasticity and the impact of organisms on their environments. He also highlights the evolution of human cognition, linking brain size and cultural practices in our development.
01:07:38
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Episode guests

Kevin Laland

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The integration of behavioral ecology and developmental biology offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of traits like the turtle's shell.
  • Niche construction illustrates how organisms actively shape their environments, influencing natural selection and evolutionary adaptations over time.

Deep dives

Adaptive Functions of Traits in Evolutionary Biology

Different subfields within evolutionary biology approach the study of traits through various lenses, each asking distinct questions. Behavioral ecologists might focus on the adaptive function of a trait, such as how a turtle's shell provides protection. In contrast, developmental biologists examine the origins and development of such traits over time, as seen with the formation of a turtle's shell from underlying skeletal structures. By integrating findings from behavioral ecology, developmental biology, and paleontology, a more complete understanding of traits and their evolution emerges.

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