The study of genes is moving toward a new frontier. There is a new field studying the little known field of microorganisms. Microbes run every process on earth. And a human is made up of 90% bacteria, or microorganisms. And yet we know very little about microbes. This public radio story looks closely at the microscopic microbes.
Story Length: 6:15
Living on Earth
AIR DATE: 03/30/2007
Changes in a neighborhood park in Illinois have affected the Northern White-Footed mice who live in the forest. In this public radio story you’ll hear from a scientist who is studying living mice today and comparing them to museum samples of dead mice to understand how they’ve changed and why. What they are finding is that the mice are growing much faster than their ancestors.
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While popular swimming holes are commonly tested for bacteria, few are tested for protozoans. This audio story discusses the problem of protozoan-caused illnesses for swimmers in rivers, lakes and ponds. The story distinguishes between different types of microbes, and is an excellent introduction to classification of microorganisms and/or classification in general.
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Scientists are creating bacteria batteries in an effort to use waste water to create electricity. This public radio story is about how the microbes from sewage can be harnessed to create microbial fuel cells. The process could provide ways to provide energy in remote place for very little money.
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Meet a legend of the cell biology world! This public radio story is a profile of the scientist who invented a way of looking at live cells that revolutionized our understanding of how molecular life works. In learning about him and his work, you learn about how cells work.
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As plants and animals reproduce over time they are able to change and adapt to ensure or improve their chances of survival. The evolutionary goal of reproduction is paired with the concept of natural selection and survival of the fittest to determine who will reproduce. From colorful plumage to size, different species use different strategies to ensure reproduction and mate selection. The sand tiger shark has a unique strategy to ensure successful reproduction - and it depends on the timing of mating. Listen to learn more about the ultimate sibling rivalry while in the womb.
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