Unraveling Marine Mysteries of Walking Fish and Vanishing Sharks – Fabienne Ziadi Künzli

Fabienne Ziadi Künzli, a Swiss fish ecologist and ETH Zurich alumna, takes us from Zurich to Okinawa, where she studies the intricate world of fish behavior and marine ecosystems. From the astonishing adaptability of mudskippers—fish that can walk on land—to the urgent threats facing shark populations, Fabienne’s work bridges species ecology, conservation, and climate science. She explains how micro-CT helps uncover the secrets of fish anatomy and sheds light on how climate change and human activity are reshaping ocean life. A passionate advocate for education and outreach, she works to shift public perceptions of sharks and highlight their critical role in marine ecosystems. Reflecting on her time at ETH Zurich, she shares how curiosity and a strong research foundation shaped her career and commitment to ocean conservation.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by marine life and the challenges of protecting it.

Book mentioned in this episode:

• The Song of the Dodo by David Quammen

chapters:

(00:00) Introduction: The Impact of Shark Fishing

(00:17) Meet Fabienne: A Journey into Ichthyology

(02:13) Fascinating Mudskippers: Fish That Walk on Land

(04:07) Innovative Research Techniques in Fish Anatomy

(10:34) Challenges in Fish Ecology and Conservation

(16:56) Changing Perceptions: The Importance of Sharks

(18:35) Reflections on ETH Zurich and Career Insights

(21:35) Personal Insights and Recommendations

(24:58) Conclusion and Farewell