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The Biome Podcast

The Biome Podcast

By Biome Media

Join us on this journey of discovery, where we learn about the natural world around us with a focus on zoology and ecology. We explore through the lens of functional anatomy to find out how animals move, survive, and reproduce. New episodes are posted on the 7th and 21st of every month. Follow our blog at www.biome.media as well and learn about other great species!
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S2E7 - Beluga Whales and the Eye

The Biome PodcastApr 07, 2023

00:00
27:55
S2E10 - Reticulated Pythons and Thermoregulation

S2E10 - Reticulated Pythons and Thermoregulation

Dive into the intriguing world of the reticulated python in this episode of The Biome Podcast. Discover how this snake's distinctive size, behaviour, and habitat set it apart in the python family. We'll dissect the unique adaptations of snake skulls and musculature that allow them to consume large prey and move in their characteristic fashion.

Finally, we unravel the complex concept of thermoregulation, exploring strategies from ectothermy to gigantothermy and how they play out in diverse animal species, including our featured reticulated python. Join us for a captivating blend of zoology and ecology that brings the natural world to your doorstep.

May 21, 202335:39
S2E9 - Bees and Pollination

S2E9 - Bees and Pollination

In this fascinating episode of The Biome Podcast, we embark on a two-part journey to explore the lives of bees and the critical role of pollination in our ecosystems. In the first segment, we delve into the intriguing life history of bees, highlighting various groups and uncovering their unique behaviors, nesting habits, and social dynamics. Discover the incredible diversity and ecological significance of these tiny yet mighty creatures.

In the second half, we examine the essential process of pollination, demystifying its mechanisms, and revealing how animals, especially bees, play a crucial role in achieving it. Gain insights into the far-reaching ecological and economic importance of pollination, as we discuss the intricate connections between plants, pollinators, and the world at large. This enlightening episode will give you a newfound appreciation for the delicate dance of nature and the indispensable bond between bees and the environment.

May 07, 202340:56
S2E8 - The White Stork's Journey and Siblicide in Nature - An Unveiling of Life's Intricate Web

S2E8 - The White Stork's Journey and Siblicide in Nature - An Unveiling of Life's Intricate Web

On this captivating episode of The Biome Podcast, we take you on a two-part adventure to uncover the mysteries of the natural world. In the first segment, we dive deep into the life history of the enigmatic White Stork. Discover the fascinating migration patterns, nesting habits, and feeding behavior of these majestic birds, as we unearth the secrets behind their iconic symbolism.

In the second half, we shift our focus to the complex and often ruthless concept of siblicide in the animal kingdom. Our technical exploration delves into the various ways siblicide manifests itself, the evolutionary reasons behind it, and the profound effects it can have on the surrounding ecosystems. This thought-provoking episode will leave you with a greater appreciation for the intricacies of life and the delicate balance that shapes the world around us.

Apr 21, 202338:15
S2E7 - Beluga Whales and the Eye

S2E7 - Beluga Whales and the Eye

Welcome to The Biome Podcast! In this episode, we'll be taking a deep dive into the world of marine animals, exploring the fascinating lives of beluga whales and examining the complex anatomy of their eyes.

In the first section of the episode, we'll shine a spotlight on beluga whales, also known as "sea canaries" for their unique vocalizations. We'll explore their habitat, social behavior, and feeding habits, and take a closer look at the challenges they face in the changing ocean environment. You'll learn all about these beautiful creatures and gain a new appreciation for their intelligence and adaptability.

In the second section of the episode, we'll delve into the technical side of zoology, exploring the eye as an organ and the differences between marine and terrestrial animal eyes. We'll examine the adaptations that marine animals have developed to optimize vision in the challenging underwater environment, from the structure of their pupils to the properties of their lenses. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the intricate biological mechanisms that allow marine animals to navigate their world with precision and clarity.

So whether you're a marine enthusiast, a budding zoologist, or simply curious about the natural world, join us on The Biome Podcast for an enlightening exploration of the lives of beluga whales and the fascinating biology of marine animal eyes.

Apr 07, 202327:55
S2E6 - Aphids and Reproductive strategies

S2E6 - Aphids and Reproductive strategies

Welcome to The Biome Podcast! In this episode, we'll be diving deep into the fascinating world of aphids, exploring their complex lives and unique behaviors. From their impressive ability to reproduce asexually to their intricate social structures, these tiny insects hold a wealth of secrets that we'll uncover together.


We'll also explore the different reproductive strategies found within the animal kingdom, from sexual reproduction to asexual reproduction and everything in between. We'll take a closer look at the fascinating process of kleptogenesis, a rare form of reproduction that occurs in certain species and has puzzled scientists for years.


So, whether you're a seasoned zoologist or simply curious about the natural world, join us on The Biome Podcast as we explore the incredible lives of aphids and the varied reproductive strategies found throughout nature.

Mar 21, 202332:17
S2E5 - Aardvarks and the Mouth

S2E5 - Aardvarks and the Mouth

Welcome to Season 2 Episode 5 of the Biome Podcast. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of aardvarks and their unique adaptations. These nocturnal creatures are found in various parts of Africa and have a long, protruding snout that they use to forage for their preferred diet of ants and termites. We explore how mouths are adapted throughout the Animal Kingdom to allow animals to fulfil specific niches. Join us as we explore the lives of these curious and fascinating creatures, and learn more about the incredible ways in which nature has adapted animals to survive in their respective habitats.

Mar 07, 202331:23
S2E4 - Doves and Avian Flight Adaptations

S2E4 - Doves and Avian Flight Adaptations

On this episode of The Biome Podcast, we'll be exploring the world of doves. We'll take a closer look at their physical adaptations that enable them to fly, including their lightweight bodies, powerful breast muscles, and robust respiration. We'll also explore their diverse natural habitats, dietary habits, and reproductive behaviors. Doves are a common bird species, but their ability to survive and thrive in different environments is truly remarkable, so join us as we explore their lives.

Feb 21, 202326:56
S2E3 - Norwegian Rats and Natural Selection

S2E3 - Norwegian Rats and Natural Selection

Welcome to the Biome Podcast! Join us as we explore the surprisingly interesting and not creepy life of one of the most prolific rodents to roam the earth, the Norwegian Rat. Found in almost every country in the world, we explore how these rats have tapped into a niche with specific adapt-abilities that allow them to be so successful. We also dive head first into the concept of natural selection, what is it and how does it related to artificial selection? What are some of the pros and cons regarding both concepts, so join us for a wild ride of an episode!

Feb 07, 202329:09
S2E2 - Dragonflies and Insect Flight

S2E2 - Dragonflies and Insect Flight

Welcome to our podcast episode on dragonflies! These fascinating creatures have captivated the imagination of people for centuries, and for good reason. From their bright, iridescent colors to their lightning-fast flying abilities, dragonflies are truly one-of-a-kind. We will be discussing their unique characteristics and adaptations that allow them to survive and thrive in their environments. Join us as we explore the wonders of the dragonflies and their ecology, behavior, and adaptation.

Jan 21, 202332:54
S2E1 - Cheetahs and Speed

S2E1 - Cheetahs and Speed

Welcome to Season 2 of the Biome Podcast! After 3 months off the air we are back with new content and more fun! This episode we look into the lives of cheetahs, my favourite animal as well as other speedsters of the animal kingdom. Join us as we start a new season of fun and exploration. 

Jan 07, 202323:26
Ep 24 - American Black Bears and Hibernation

Ep 24 - American Black Bears and Hibernation

As Season 1 of the Biome Podcast comes to an end, in Episode 24 we explore the life of the American Black Bear, an animal so strong it can lift almost 3 times its body weight with one leg. We also delve into the ins and outs of hibernation, its so much more than just a power nap. 

This is the last episode of season 1 for the podcast, season 2 will start on 7th of January. Make sure you sign up for emails on the website so you don't miss a single episode. Also, please send us any recommendations to make the podcast better for season 2!

Sep 23, 202223:59
Ep 23 - Ravens and Animal Death Rituals

Ep 23 - Ravens and Animal Death Rituals

In Episode 23 of the Biome Podcast we explore the life of the common raven, an animal so intelligent that studies suggest that they surpass the intelligence of adult chimps by 4 months of age. We also explore different animal death rituals and how they process and treat their dead. 

Season 1 of the Biome podcast will end at the end of this month, season 2 will start on 7th of January. Make sure you sign up for emails on the website so you don't miss a single episode. 

Sep 09, 202227:45
Ep 22 - Sea Otters and Keystone Species

Ep 22 - Sea Otters and Keystone Species

After my recent trip to Vancouver Island, where I saw these wonderfully cute creatures in the wild, I was eager to take a dive into the world of the Sea Otter, a species with three subspecies. We also take a look at keystone species, what they are, how they affect the ecosystem and some examples of them. 

Aug 23, 202224:41
Ep 21 - Orcas and Animal Intelligence

Ep 21 - Orcas and Animal Intelligence

With the recent passing of one of SeaWorlds Orcas, I thought we could take a dive into the world of these fascinating and intelligent creatures. Creatures we are still learning so much about, including new types that were only found in the last 20 or so years. We also take a look at Animal intelligence or cognition, the different forms it takes and why it is so hard to quantify. Today's field notes at thebiomepodcast.com compliment this episodes technical sections so be sure to have a look at those too. 

Aug 07, 202223:47
Ep 20 - Leopards and the Sardine Run

Ep 20 - Leopards and the Sardine Run

Welcome to the Biome Podcast, the podcast all about zoology and ecology. Join us as we explore the lives of one of the most stealthy animals alive, the leopard. We also take a look at a massive event that occurs in the waters of Southern Africa - the Sardine run. So join us in this exciting episode and see if you can answer the trivia question.

Jul 21, 202224:04
Ep 19 - Cuttlefish and Chromatophores

Ep 19 - Cuttlefish and Chromatophores

Join us as we dive into the life of a cuttlefish, we explore of of their incredible defence mechanisms and what separates them from octopi and squid. We also have a deeper look into the world of chromatophores, what are they and how do they help cuttlefish live their lives?

Jul 07, 202225:42
Ep 18 - Tardigrades and Extremophiles

Ep 18 - Tardigrades and Extremophiles

In this episode we look at some of the hardiest little creatures known to science. Tardigrades are found almost everywhere on the planet and have even survived the vacuum of space. However, they aren't considered extremophiles, listen to the episode to find out why. We also explore the world of extremophiles and their fascinating habits. 

Jun 21, 202223:33
Ep 17 - Orangutans and Albinism

Ep 17 - Orangutans and Albinism

Did you know that Orangutans are some of the most intelligent great apes around and that the males can grow beards? Join us as we look at these fascinating creatures in depth. We also explore the fascinating world of melanin and what the effects of not having it can be. 

Jun 07, 202226:54
Ep 16 - Rhinos and Announcements!

Ep 16 - Rhinos and Announcements!

Join us as we explore the 5 living species of rhino and see how they tie in to our huge announcement! Did you know that the Javan Rhino used to be found over large parts of the Indian subcontinent and is now only found on the island of Java? Did you know that the Sumatran rhino is relatively tiny growing to just under 1.5 m or just over 4 ft at the shoulders? How about that Black rhino from Africa have the highest mortality rate due to fighting with other members of the species than any other mammal? There is so much to learn about each of these highly endangered but incredible tanks of nature. 

May 21, 202228:24
Ep 15 - White Whales and the strangest teeth on the planet

Ep 15 - White Whales and the strangest teeth on the planet

Let's dive into the world of the white whales, two species that make up the family known as Monodontidae. They are also known as toothed-whales and, at least for the Narwhal, their teeth are something incredible. We then take a look at some of the weirdest teeth found in nature. Let us know what you think of the list.
May 07, 202222:43
Ep 14 - Tijana Selak and Wildlife Rehabilitation

Ep 14 - Tijana Selak and Wildlife Rehabilitation

Something new! Not only is this the first episode available in video format but also we have our first interview. We are joined by the lovely Tijana Selak, good friend who has had extensive experience teaching others about the joys or wildlife as well as helping wildlife rehabilitate. Join us as we learn about some of her highlights as well as things to do when you might be faced with an animal in distress or too young to fend for themselves. 


Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: https://calgarywildlife.org

Tijana Selak: https://thiswildfauna.com


Apr 21, 202227:43
Ep 13 - Barn Owls and Wing Types

Ep 13 - Barn Owls and Wing Types

Lets have a good look at the Common Barn Owl, one of the most widely distributed birds alive today. We also explore the world of bird wing types. Wings can tell us so much about a birds life cycle that it would be a mistake to overlook them. So join us in this episode of beautiful birds and fantastic flight. Also, do you think you can answer this episodes Trivia Question? Prove your zoology knowledge here!

Apr 07, 202223:60
Ep 12 - Goliath Birdeater and Parasitism

Ep 12 - Goliath Birdeater and Parasitism

Lets have a good look at the Goliath Birdeater, a spider so big it can reportedly eat birds according to the name? The question is though, is the name correct? We also take a dive into defining parasitism, one of the most common predator-prey relationships found in nature. So join us in this episode of creepy crawlies. Also, do you think you can answer this episodes Trivia Question? Prove your zoology knowledge here!

Mar 21, 202223:12
Ep 11 - Marine Iguana's and tongues

Ep 11 - Marine Iguana's and tongues

Join us as we dive into an exploration of the worlds only sea going iguana. These fascinating creatures come in great variety even though they are all one species. It appears this variation is due, in part to the environment they inhabit, but we explore that in more detail. We also look at the tongue and what it does for most tetrapods. 

Mar 07, 202222:48
Ep 10 - Asian Elephants and Altruism

Ep 10 - Asian Elephants and Altruism

In episode 10 we talk about Asian Elephants (Elaphus maximus) and explore their world. What makes them such fascinating creatures and how are they so very different from their African counterparts? We also look at the concept of altruism in a biological sense. What constitutes altruism and why is it so special in zoology. 

There is also a surprise mention of another strangely named creature in this episode. 

Feb 21, 202224:30
Ep 9 - Thorny Devils and the Weirdest Defences

Ep 9 - Thorny Devils and the Weirdest Defences

In this episode we take a closer look at the Thorny Devils of Western Australia. They have some incredible abilities that help them find water in arid conditions. We also take a deep dive into some of the strangest defensive strategies found throughout the animal kingdom. 


This weeks interesting zoology resource is 10000birds.com. It is one of, if not the, best birding blog on the internet. 

Feb 07, 202223:48
Ep 8 - Mako Sharks and Electroreception

Ep 8 - Mako Sharks and Electroreception

Lets explore the depths of knowledge on the Longfin and Shortfin Mako Sharks in this episode. We also look at the ability of certain animals to sense and create electric fields around them. Some of those species might surprise you as its not just marine animals that have the ability. 


The account to follow is @oceanx on Instagram and it was suggested by Vienna S

Jan 21, 202225:21
Ep 7 - Tiger Salamanders and Metamorphosis

Ep 7 - Tiger Salamanders and Metamorphosis

Have you ever seen a Tiger Salamander? Most people don't know these fascinating creatures may be near by! Join us as we explore their lives and dive deeper into the incredible topic of Metamorphosis. The process some animals undergo to become adults!


Topic to follow is lostandfoundnature.com go have a look at their wonderful collection!

Jan 07, 202225:04
Ep 6 - Common Swifts and Flight
Dec 21, 202126:02
Ep 5 - Crested Rats and Mimicry

Ep 5 - Crested Rats and Mimicry

What is a crested rat? How are they different from other rats? This week we learn about an animal suggested to me that I had never heard of before and explore the intricacies of the life of the Crested Rat. We also delve into the world of mimicry and explore some of the different types found out in nature. So come join us and lets explore these two topics together. 

Dec 07, 202122:39
Ep 4 - Peacock Mantis Shrimp and Toxins

Ep 4 - Peacock Mantis Shrimp and Toxins

Lets talk about Mantis shrimp! What makes these little super creatures so super? We also explore the difference between venom and poison. 

There is also a shout-out to the great work done by @canadianconservation on instagram!

Nov 21, 202124:20
Ep 3 - Pangolins and Cranial Appendages

Ep 3 - Pangolins and Cranial Appendages

In this episode we put the spotlight on Pangolins. We also explore the world of horns and antlers. Join us as we learn about these animals and see what the cranial appendages have in common with one another.

Nov 07, 202122:44
Ep 2 - Lungfish and Estivation

Ep 2 - Lungfish and Estivation

Ever wondered what lungfish are? Or what estivation is? Or how they relate? Then join me in this episode as we go through and look at both in detail as well as discussing how they are related. 

Oct 21, 202119:44
Biome Episode 1 - Elephants and Moths

Biome Episode 1 - Elephants and Moths

In this episode I give a short introduction to the new podcast and we talk about the goal for it. We also look at elephants and go over phenotypes and what they are. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us at questions@biome.media or on our site at www.biome.media

Oct 07, 202116:18