Erik Stokstad

In this discussion, Erik Stokstad, a Science Magazine staff writer, reveals insights into how tropical plants are adapting to extreme heat due to climate change, underscoring their survival strategies. Sarita Patil, co-director of the Food Allergy Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, explores the alarming rise of peanut allergies, unveiling how similar antibodies might contribute to this trend. Their fascinating narratives weave together the resilience of nature and the complexities of our immune responses, illuminating pressing issues in both botany and health.

Discover how RNA-based pesticides are revolutionizing crop pest control, the vital role of ephemeral streams in clean waterways, and the future of money with author Rachel O'Dwyer. Erik Stokstad discusses targeting pests using RNA, Craig Brinkerhoff analyzes ephemeral streams, and Rachel O'Dwyer explores alternative currency in a cashless society.

Daniel Rubinoff, a professor at the University of Hawaii, discusses a remarkable carnivorous caterpillar that haunts spiderwebs, camouflaging itself with spider parts for survival. Erik Stokstad, a Science Magazine staff writer, shares challenges in identifying genes in peas, linking Mendel's historic work to modern genetic research. They also explore ecological findings, like how wavy mowing patterns can boost insect habitats, and the surprising resilience of trees struck by lightning. A sneak peek into a new book series on death and dying wraps up an engaging conversation.