What can seashells teach us about the health of our oceans?
Summary
Host Emily Kwong interviews author Cynthia Barnett about her book on seashells, exploring their role in human history, from ancient burial sites to the origins of Shell Oil. They discuss how shells serve as scientific records of ocean health, revealing impacts of climate change on marine life. The episode also honors overlooked female scientists like Mary Anning, highlighting shells as vital indicators of environmental change rather than just decorative objects.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The living origins of seashells
Ancient history: The first shell keepsake
Calusa shell mounds and Native American history
From curios to oil: The origin of Shell Oil
Seashells as sentinels of climate change
Mary Anning and women in conchology
Conclusion: Listening to what shells tell us
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