Astrophysicist and folklorist Moiya McTier reveals that there are potentially too many galaxies for us to comprehend. Sara Kiley dives into the evolutionary history of ancient sharks and how climate changes shaped their adaptations. Rachel explains how ants act as mini surgeons, performing intricate procedures to help injured colony mates. Discover the surprising possibilities that ant saliva holds for future research and intriguing parallels between ancient and modern marine life amidst current climate challenges.
Florida carpenter ants exhibit surgical behaviors, amputating injured legs to enhance colony survival through intelligent collective responses and cooperation.
Sharks evolved significantly during past climate crises, demonstrating adaptability that highlights potential impacts of current climate change on marine life.
Deep dives
The Importance of Therapy in Self-Care
Prioritizing mental health is vital, with therapy being a key component of effective self-care. Regular sessions with a therapist can equip individuals with valuable coping strategies and help in establishing healthy boundaries. When life's pressures mount, having a trusted therapist can provide essential support by addressing personal needs and challenges. Engaging in therapy is framed as a non-negotiable practice for maintaining emotional well-being.
Unique Strategies of Ants for Healing
Florida carpenter ants exhibit remarkable behaviors akin to surgical procedures, where they amputate injured legs of their colony members. This action is a survival strategy, as it allows the affected ants a better chance of continued survival after treatment. Ants have been observed to clean wounds and perform amputations based on the severity of the injury, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of their social needs and the implications for the colony's health. This intelligent response to injury showcases the complexity of animal behavior and coping mechanisms within social species.
Shark Evolution in Response to Climate Change
Sharks adapted significantly during a historical climate crisis approximately 93 million years ago, moving from a benthic lifestyle to a more active pelagic existence. This transition involved critical evolutionary changes in their body structure, particularly the development of longer, more efficient pectoral fins that enabled them to thrive in warmer and oxygen-depleted waters. The study highlights a correlation between rising ocean temperatures and the evolutionary fitness of shark species, illustrating how adaptability is crucial for survival in changing environments. Understanding their historical evolution can provide insights into the potential impacts of current climate change on marine life.
The Surprising Abundance of Galaxies Around the Milky Way
Research has revealed a potential overabundance of faint dwarf galaxies surrounding the Milky Way, contradicting previous assumptions about their quantity. Data from the Subaru telescope has led scientists to estimate that there may be closer to 500 satellite galaxies in our galactic neighborhood, significantly more than earlier models predicted. This finding raises questions about established astrophysical models that could be inaccurate, prompting a reassessment of the underlying principles governing galaxy formation. As researchers continue to analyze data, they aim to refine our understanding of the cosmos and the distribution of galaxies.
Astrophysicist and folklorist Moiya McTier rejoins the show to talk about how there are too many galaxies out there. Plus, Sara Kiley talks about sharks of yore and Rachel explains how ants are becoming little mini surgeons.
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