Tiny Matters [BONUS] Parrotfish poop beaches and an altitude adaptation: Tiny Show and Tell Us #1
Jul 3, 2024
Discover how parrotfish contribute to sandy beaches with their unique feeding habits and poop, maintaining a humorous vibe. Dive into the fascinating science behind how our bodies adjust to high altitudes, thanks to a molecule called 2,3-BPG, which helps improve oxygen delivery. Uncover the intricate adaptations humans undergo during pregnancy and exercise, as well as the impacts of oxygen regulation on athletic performance. Listeners are encouraged to share their own science stories to be featured!
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Parrotfish Create White Sand Beaches
- Parrotfish eat coral and poop calcium carbonate, which forms white sand on many beaches.
- One large parrotfish can produce 200 pounds of sand annually, contributing significantly to beach formation.
White Sand Sources Vary
- Not all white sand beaches come from parrotfish poop; some, like in northwest Florida, come from eroded quartz.
- The sand composition depends on local geology and environment, not just animal contributions.
Altitude Adaptation with 2,3-BPG
- Mike shared how his body struggled to keep up with a friend after moving to high altitude Colorado.
- His body adapts through a molecule called 2,3-BPG that improves oxygen delivery at altitude.