The Breath of Bugs: How Oxygen Shapes Insect Evolution

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of insects and how they respond to changes in atmospheric oxygen. We talk to Dr. John VandenBrooks, a researcher who raised different kinds of insects in various oxygen levels and discovered some surprising results. We also discuss the implications of his findings for understanding the evolution of giant dragonflies and other ancient insects, as well as the potential of using fossilized insects as proxies for paleo-oxygen levels. Join us as we dive into the breath of bugs and learn how oxygen shapes insect evolution.