The terrifying physics of prehistoric sea monsters
Summary
This episode explores how paleontologists used physics models to reveal that mosasaurs were fast ambush predators, correcting misconceptions from Jurassic World. It also examines how elephant carcasses in Kruger National Park create long-lasting nutrient hotspots that shape savanna ecosystems. Finally, the show discusses a study linking reduced respiratory microbiome diversity in long COVID patients to their specific symptom profiles.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Allianz Travel Insurance
Intro: Introducing the Mosasaur topic
Mosasaurs: Not dinosaurs, but giant sea lizards
Sponsors: University of Buffalo, Edward Jones, BetterHelp
Mosasaur speed: The 'slam start' ambush technique
Methodology: Using physics models to reconstruct movement
Elephants: From whale falls to elephant carcasses
Elephant carcasses: Creating nutrient-rich hotspots
Ecological impact: Elephants as eco-engineers in death
Long COVID: Introduction to respiratory microbiomes
Long COVID: Link between microbiome diversity and symptoms
Credits and outro
Sponsors: Capella University and Angie
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