The Essential Rhythm | WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives

The Essential Rhythm 9/10/23: Where Fresh Water Meets the Sea

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 13:30:18 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode answers listeners’ questions about estuaries, the zone in a river where it meets the sea. The influence of tidal flows and differing densities of water are discussed relative to the mixing of fresh and salt water. Organisms that can live in the wide range of salinities typically found in estuaries are briefly discussed. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

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The Essential Rhythm 8/27/23: All the Salt in the Sea

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 27 Aug 2023 13:30:21 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode explains where the salt in the ocean comes from, and outlines in simple terms the balance of inputs and outputs that result in relatively steady state salinity in ocean water. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/27/23: All the Salt in the Sea first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 8/13/23: Charismatic Megafauna – Northwest Atlantic Walruses

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 13:30:26 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the history of the northwest Atlantic/Canadian maritime population of walruses, including their historic range and reasons for extinction. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/13/23: Charismatic Megafauna – Northwest Atlantic Walruses first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 8/6/23: Meet Mola Mola, the Ocean Sunfish

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 13:30:58 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episodes describes the unique ocean going fish Mola mola. It includes a physical description, behavioral characteristics and how to differentiate the fin of a Mola mola from that of a shark. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/6/23: Meet Mola Mola, the Ocean Sunfish first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 7/23/23: Beach Daze

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 13:30:22 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode explains the origins of the sandy beaches of maritime Canada, as related to the erosion of sandstone formed as a result of the erosion of the ancestral Appalachian mountains. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 7/23/23: Beach Daze first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 7/2/23: The Crab that Feeds Everyone

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 13:30:10 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the ecological of horseshoe crabs as species that transfer energy to many different threads in the food web, including migratory shore birds and fish. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

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The Essential Rhythm 6/25/23: Blue Blood

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 13:30:47 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode explains why horseshoe crabs’ blood is blue as well as the critically important substance found in it. Limulus amoebocyte lysate is isolated from horseshoe crab blood and used to test the sterility of medical equipment and vaccines, and as of yet has no approved synthetic alternative in the United States. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 6/25/23: Blue Blood first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 6/18/23: How Are They Doing It? It’s Complicated…

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 13:30:18 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the state of horseshoe crab populations as well as the challenges to understanding population levels in the absence of data. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 6/18/23: How Are They Doing It? It’s Complicated… first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 6/4/23: Horseshoe crabs in Maine

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 13:30:54 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes some key anatomical features of Limulus polyphemus, American horseshoe crabs and explains the mating behaviors that can be seen when the animals visit the intertidal zone. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

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The Essential Rhythm 5/21/23: Does rockweed harvest damage intertidal ecosystems?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 21 May 2023 13:30:33 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode summarizes the findings of Johnston et al (2023) showing that commercial rockweed harvest as practiced in Maine results in on average reduced height but pre harvest levels of biomass one year post harvest. Different implications based on management perspectives are noted. Johnston, Elliot et al 2023 Bed-scale impact and recovery of a commercially important intertidal seaweed, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 561:151869 About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

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The Essential Rhythm 5/14/23: The Perils and Promise of eDNA

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 14 May 2023 13:30:17 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the process of using environmental DNA (eDNA) to investigate the presence or absence of organisms in the environment. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 5/14/23: The Perils and Promise of eDNA first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 4/30/23: Crab vs. Crab

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 13:30:07 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the concept of life history strategy, and highlights findings from a paper that investigated the impact of introduced intertidal crabs (Carcinus maenus, European green crabs and Hemigrapsus sanguineus, Asian shore crabs) on Atlantic rock crabs (Cancer irroratus). The study demonstrated that the rock crab life history strategy of living in the intertidal zone for the first two years of its life is no longer adaptive in areas with introduced crabs, as green crabs and shore crab readily prey on young rock crabs. Griffen, B. Riley, M. 2015 Potential impacts of invasive crabs on one life history strategy of native rock crabs in the gulf of maine Biol invasions 17: 2533-2544 About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

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The Essential Rhythm 4/23/23: Next Wave Species Introductions

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 13:30:04 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode summarizes a 2019 study on the interactions of European green crabs and Asian shore crabs. Researchers found that in rocky intertidal habitats on the southern New England, when shore crabs and green crabs overlap, green crab density goes down significantly. They identified key behavioral differences between juveniles of the two crab species that likely explain this observed effect. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 4/23/23: Next Wave Species Introductions first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 4/9/23: Yummy Yummy Copepods

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 13:30:49 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode highlights Calanus finmarchicus, a tiny crustacean that serves as a keystone species in north Atlantic food webs. North Atlantic Right Whales, commercially important fish and virtually all other predators in the north Atlantic feed on it because of its high nutrient content. C. finmarchicus likewise feeds heavily on phytoplankton and is a major conduit for moving primary productivity into the greater food web. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 4/9/23: Yummy Yummy Copepods first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 3/26/23: Lacuna Snails

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 13:30:17 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes a little known intertidal snail that feeds on kelp, the Lacuna snail (Lacuna vincta). The snail can also be found by searching out its doughnut shaped egg masses on kelp fronds. Its hard times dispersal strategy involves creating a mucous parachute which enables it to drift away on water currents. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 3/26/23: Lacuna Snails first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 3/12/23: Hidden Biology

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 13:30:21 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses misconceptions about early animal evolution, including the notion that resolving early animal evolution will settle the debate as to whether our earliest ancestors were sponges or comb jellies. Both groups of animals display a suite of undervalued traits, referred to as hidden biology, that demonstrate their evolutionary complexity. Reference: Dunn et al 2015 The hidden biology of sponges and ctenophores, Trends in Ecology and Evolution Vol 30 No 5 About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 3/12/23: Hidden Biology first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 2/26/23: Other uses for mucus

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 14:30:48 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the ‘ciliary mucus particle transport’ mechanism that many animals use for feeding. Reef building corals are the primary example featured in this show. Suspension feeding Molluscs are also included as an example of independent evolution of this trait (two or more lineages landing on the same trait independently). About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 2/26/23: Other uses for mucus first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 2/19/23: What is mucus?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 14:30:24 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode explains the chemical structure of mucus, and revisits is role in early animal evolution as well as as a lubricant for animal movement and travel. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 2/19/23: What is mucus? first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/29/23: The Origins of Mucus

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 14:30:38 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses the origins of mucus in early animal lineages, including Cnidaria and Ctenophora, and highlights the lack of mucus in another early animal lineage, Porifera (sponges). Scientists hypothesize that the invention of mucus was a major event that enabled the evolution of true tissues, as well as serving as the front line of the immune system, separating microbes from vulnerable tissue, in all animals from Cnidarians to ourselves. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/29/23: The Origins of Mucus first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/22/23: What are shells good for?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 14:30:02 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode continues the discussion of the role of shells in marine invertebrates, including protection from predation and the environment. Like vertebrate skeletons, invertebrate shells also provide attachment points for muscles and enable complex movement. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/22/23: What are shells good for? first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/15/23: Bones on the outside

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 14:30:05 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes some of the similarities between vertebrate bones and mollusc shells. The use of calcium to make the different mineral components, as well as the different layers of mollusc shells is discussed. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/15/23: Bones on the outside first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/1/23: Seasons at the Shore

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 13:30:45 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses physical factors that influence food availability and thus seasonal rhythms at the sea shore. Soft shell clams (Mya arenaria) are used to illustrate the seasonal connections between temperature, food and reproduction About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/1/23: Seasons at the Shore first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 12/18/22: How Science Happens

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 18 Dec 2022 13:31:11 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the scientific process, as executed by a group of first year college students surveying the intertidal zone in Maine. Findings include a generally positive relationship between the distance from the high tide line and biodiversity, as well as an unexpected pattern of periwinkle abundance relative to time of day. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 12/18/22: How Science Happens first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 12/11/22: Cytochrome oxidase what?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 11 Dec 2022 13:30:34 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode explains the function of the CO1 gene, which is used for DNA barcoding animals. The gene codes for part of the protein cytochrome oxidase, which is integral to aerobic respiration and the generation of ATP. It is also idea for barcoding because of its not to fast/not too slow mutation rate. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 12/11/22: Cytochrome oxidase what? first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 12/4/22: The Humble Barnacle

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 19:12:47 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the results of DNA barcoding a barnacle, and explains the characteristics scientists use to classify barnacles as an arthropod, related to shrimp and lobsters. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 12/4/22: The Humble Barnacle first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 11/13/22: Lacy Crust Bryozoan

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 13:30:27 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the familiar marine invertebrate Lacy Crust Bryozoan, explaining its colonial growth form and feeding structure, as well as its status as an introduced and potentially ecologically damaging marine species. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 11/13/22: Lacy Crust Bryozoan first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 10/23/22: DNA Barcoding

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 23 Oct 2022 13:30:37 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the process of DNA Barcoding: extracting DNA from a cell and using it to identify the species of the organism. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 10/23/22: DNA Barcoding first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 9/25/22: Tiny Creatures in the Sand

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 25 Sep 2022 13:30:31 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes some of the animals that make up the meiofauna on a sandy beach, tiny animals that live between grains of sand. Groups include nematodes (round worms), copepods (tiny crustaceans) and tardigrades (water bears). About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 9/25/22: Tiny Creatures in the Sand first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 9/11/22: What lives on sand beaches?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 13:30:23 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces ‘interstitial space’, which is the space between grains of sand, as the primary habitat found on a sandy beach. This habitat is largely occupied by tiny animals known collectively as meiofauna, and they form an ecological connection between the macrofauna and microbial communities in benthic and beach environments. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 9/11/22: What lives on sand beaches? first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 8/28/22: Southern Sandy Beaches

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 13:30:06 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode recounts walking the sandy beaches of Martha’s Vineyard and seeing slipper shells (Crepidula fornicata) as the primary herbivore in the ecosystem. Slipper shells are sessile, leading to the question of where they find places to settle in a dynamic sandy environment. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/28/22: Southern Sandy Beaches first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 8/14/22: A Field Trip to an Island

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 14 Aug 2022 13:30:01 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes a recent trip to Machias Seal Island. The island hosts the largest population of nesting puffins on the coast of Maine. Elements of their land based breeding behavior include vocalizations and near constant motion, as well as feeding their young. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/14/22: A Field Trip to an Island first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 8/7/22: Sand dollars are alive

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 13:30:03 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode is a public service announcement reminding beach goers that sand dollars are living creatures just like snails and mussels, and should be left at the beach! Attributes of living sand dollars are described (presence of minute spines, colored dark red or purple) to help beach combers discern living animals from empty shells acceptable for collecting. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 8/7/22: Sand dollars are alive first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 7/24/22: A Mystery at the Beach

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 24 Jul 2022 13:30:23 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode details finding a mass of long fin squid eggs washed up on the shore at a local Maine beach. Squid life history and mating behavior are also discussed. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 7/24/22: A Mystery at the Beach first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 7/17/22: Maine’s Most Active Clam

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 13:30:17 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes Ensis directus, otherwise known as razor or jack knife clams. These clams are known for being very active, rapidly burrowing into the sand using their large and powerful foot. Some sources report they can even swim in the water! About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 7/17/22: Maine’s Most Active Clam first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 6/26/22: Attack of the clones

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 26 Jun 2022 13:30:24 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the complex phenomenon of self/non-self recognition in otherwise simple asexually reproducing animals, the anemones. Certain anemones are able to differentiate between their own clones and unrelated individuals in order to defend their territory. This research is featured in Adam Nicolson’s Life Between the Tides. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 6/26/22: Attack of the clones first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 6/12/22: Evolution in Action

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 13:30:35 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes research completed in the Gulf of Maine in the 1980’s by Robin Hadlock Seeley, exploring the changes of smooth periwinkle shell shape in response to predation pressure from green crabs. The research was featured in Adam Nicolson’s book Life Between the Tides. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 6/12/22: Evolution in Action first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 5/29/22: Periwinkles and Predators

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 29 May 2022 13:20:11 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode features insights from Adam Nicolson’s Life Between the Tides and describes dynamics between common periwinkles and their predators, green crabs. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 5/29/22: Periwinkles and Predators first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 5/15/22: Shrimp have deep thoughts too

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 15 May 2022 13:30:57 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode features insights from Adam Nicolson’s Life Between the Tides and describes the parallels between the nervous systems of shrimp and humans. Both animal lineages have fast reacting, non brain linked neural pathways that drive life saving behaviors (sometimes called a “startle response” or reflex). About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 5/15/22: Shrimp have deep thoughts too first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 5/8/22: Sand fleas are smarter than you think

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 08 May 2022 13:32:56 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the water retaining properties of the exoskeleton of sand fleas as well as research into their unexpectedly complex navigational systems. Together these allow them to forage in the intertidal zone, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 5/8/22: Sand fleas are smarter than you think first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 5/1/22: Sand Fleas and Good Books

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 01 May 2022 13:30:43 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces the book Life Between the Tides by Adam Nicolson and highlights sand fleas, the organisms covered in the first chapter of the book. It also discusses protean flight, the adaptive anti predator behavior exhibited by sand fleas and many other prey animals. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 5/1/22: Sand Fleas and Good Books first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 4/24/22: Everyone is hungry

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 13:30:14 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode recounts the signs of spring related to the onset of the alewife migration. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 4/24/22: Everyone is hungry first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 4/10/22: An early spring trip to the seashore

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 10 Apr 2022 13:30:25 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes an early spring trip to a typical Maine gravel flat beach, and the many organisms that can be found, including razor and surf clams, ribbon and terebellid worms, sea stars and sand dollars, and rough nudibranchs and their eggs. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 4/10/22: An early spring trip to the seashore first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 3/27/22: How marine worms breathe

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 27 Mar 2022 13:30:11 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the blood vascular circulatory system both humans and marine worms share. Many marine worms in the phylum Annalida have external gills that oxygenate blood that is then circulated through vessels to various tissues. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 3/27/22: How marine worms breathe first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 3/20/22: How molluscs breathe

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 20 Mar 2022 13:30:02 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode details how members of the phylum Mollusca utilize ventilation of their gill tissue for dual purposes. Bivalves suspension feed, pulling food out of the water they “inhale” and Cephalopods use the water for jet propulsion. This adaptive efficiency has lead to broad biodiversity in this phylum. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 3/20/22: How molluscs breathe first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 2/27/22: How Gills Work

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 13:30:01 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces the basics of specialized gas exchange structures in marine invertebrates. Disadvantageous diffusion rates are overcome by high surface area, achieved through folding or filaments of tissue known collectively as gills. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 2/27/22: How Gills Work first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 2/20/22: Breathing from water

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 20 Feb 2022 13:30:08 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode elaborates on the simple gas exchange mechanisms of sponges, cnidarians and flatworms. These organisms lack specialized gas exchange organs, instead relying on simple diffusion across the body wall. This limits their body shape and structure as a trade off for reducing the diffusion distance gasses pass through. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 2/20/22: Breathing from water first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 2/6/22: Gas Exchange at Sea

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 13:30:38 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces the concept of metabolic gas exchange and discusses simple gas exchange mechanisms used by marine invertebrates, including manipulation of surface area to volume ratios. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 2/6/22: Gas Exchange at Sea first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/23/22: The importance of grazers

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 13:30:37 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes a study where researchers discovered that grazing herbivores like limpets and periwinkles help stabilize intertidal community structure and thus provide resilience in the face of climate change. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/23/22: The importance of grazers first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 1/9/22: How they stick

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 13:30:56 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the misconception that animals physically suction themselves to rock surfaces in the intertidal zone, and discusses new research that demonstrates that organisms generate a mucus with temporary adhesive properties (aka reversible glue) to navigate life in a wave impacted environment. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 1/9/22: How they stick first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 12/26/21: Limpets and their frenemies

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 13:30:20 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses the local (to Maine) limpet Tectura testudinalis and its important ecological relationship with encrusting coralline algae. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 12/26/21: Limpets and their frenemies first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 12/12/21: Chitons: The Many Shell Bearers

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 13:30:02 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses chitons, unusual molluscs similar to limpets that can be seen at low tide. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 12/12/21: Chitons: The Many Shell Bearers first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 11/28/21: Bryozoans

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 13:30:11 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes bryozoans, colonial marine invertebrates commonly seen growing on kelp (among other places). Key characteristics of bryozoans are their calcareous modular exoskeletal features and the lophophore, a tentacular feeding structure that rings the mouth of each individual zooid. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 11/28/21: Bryozoans first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 11/14/21: Tunicates

WERU-FM 89.9 — Sun, 14 Nov 2021 13:30:16 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces tunicates, which have both a solitary and colonial form. We discuss their feeding strategy (suspension feeding) and their basic anatomy, and note the differences between solitary and colonial tunicates. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 11/14/21: Tunicates first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 10/21/21: Hydroids

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:30:13 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes a specific group of colonial animals, the hydroids (a class of the phylum Cnidaria). Characteristics of this group include stinging cells called cnidae and a complicated life history that includes asexual and sexual phases. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 10/21/21: Hydroids first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

The Essential Rhythm 10/14/21: Colonial Animals

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 12:30:33 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces the basics of marine invertebrate colonial animals, including the major groups which use the strategy, and how it differs from animals on land. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post The Essential Rhythm 10/14/21: Colonial Animals first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/21/21: Sand Lances- The quintessential forage fish

WERU-FM 89.9 — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 12:30:26 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses sand lances, a small fish in the Gulf of Maine that is critical to marine food web. Issues of population variability and its impact on species like puffins are included. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/21/21: Sand Lances- The quintessential forage fish first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/9/21: Sand Shrimp

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:30:12 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes Cragnon septemspinosa, a small shrimp found in shallow coastal water and estuaries along the western Atlantic. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/9/21: Sand Shrimp first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/2/21: Leaves that crawl

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:30:13 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the sacoglossan sea slugs, a group of gastropods known for feeding on the cellular sap of algal cells. One species, Elysia chlorotica, is of particular interest for its ability to ingest chloroplasts intact and incorporate them into their own tissues. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/2/21: Leaves that crawl first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 8/19/21: Sea Slugs of Maine Part 2

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 12:30:37 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley In this episode we discuss the other large group of nudibranchs found in Maine waters, the aeolid nudibranchs. Key features include the respiratory and digestive aspects of their cerata and their use of kleptocnidae as a defense tactic. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 8/19/21: Sea Slugs of Maine Part 2 first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 8/12/21: Sea Slugs in Maine

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 12:32:23 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces one of the groups of sea slugs found in the Gulf of Maine region: the dorid nudibranchs. Their general anatomy and reproductive signs are discussed. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 8/12/21: Sea Slugs in Maine first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 8/5/21: Snails without shells

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:39:36 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces some of the evolutionary hallmarks of shell less gastropods-the sea slugs and nudibranchs. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 8/5/21: Snails without shells first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 7/22/21: Keeping track of the rocky intertidal

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 12:29:45 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley In this episode I discuss the science wing of the National Park Service and describe the long term intertidal monitoring project in Acadia National Park that I participate in, including the types of data collected and the way the data could be used for park management. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 7/22/21: Keeping track of the rocky intertidal first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 7/8/21: I found a snail-It’s really big!

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 12:27:42 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode covers moon snails, sub tidal predatory snails of mud and sand bottoms. We describe their shell characteristics, feeding ecology and most common signs of activity (including bore holes on prey shells) as well as their ability to generate copious volumes of mucus. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 7/8/21: I found a snail-It’s really big! first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 7/1/21: I found a snail: It’s a dog whelk

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:30:52 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes dog whelks, a species of carnivorous snail common in the Gulf of Maine intertidal. Topics include their feeding strategies, including using a proboscis and an accessory boring organ, and their reproductive strategy. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 7/1/21: I found a snail: It’s a dog whelk first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 6/17/21: I found a snail! Its a littorine!

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 12:30:14 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the three common species of littorine snails (aka periwinkles) found in the northern Gulf of Maine. Common, rough and smooth periwinkles are described in terms of habitat and reproductive strategy. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 6/17/21: I found a snail! Its a littorine! first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 6/10/21: I found a snail-now what?

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 12:30:41 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes basic snail anatomy in the context of the phylum Mollusca. It is a the first in a series about common sea shore creatures one might encounter in the summer at the beach. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 6/10/21: I found a snail-now what? first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 5/27/21: Osmoregulation and bony fish

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 27 May 2021 12:30:39 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode reviews the mechanisms by which marine and freshwater fish osmoregulate, meaning, how they maintain an internal salinity different than the external salinity, whether in fresh or salt water. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 5/27/21: Osmoregulation and bony fish first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 5/20/21: Alewife restoration: a success story

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 20 May 2021 12:30:57 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode recounts the story of local alewife restoration methods, including transplanting river herring, relying on their natal fidelity to restore future fish spawning runs. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 5/20/21: Alewife restoration: a success story first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 5/13/21: Osmoregulation Pros and Cons

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 13 May 2021 12:30:08 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces the concept of osmosis, briefly discussing how it is managed by marine invertebrates. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 5/13/21: Osmoregulation Pros and Cons first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 5/6/21: Connectivity in the Ecosystem

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 06 May 2021 12:33:12 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses the role of alewives in connecting marine and fresh water ecosystems by transporting energy and nutrients between the two. About the host: Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 5/6/21: Connectivity in the Ecosystem first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 4/22/21: Echinoderm guts: A short story

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:30:59 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode compares and contrasts the human digestive system with the various forms of echinoderm digestion.

The post Essential Rhythm 4/22/21: Echinoderm guts: A short story first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 4/15/21: Regenerate like a brittle star

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 12:30:27 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode reviews the common characteristics of echinoderms and discusses the mechanisms of arm regeneration in brittle stars.

The post Essential Rhythm 4/15/21: Regenerate like a brittle star first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 4/8/21: Life cycle of the Scyphozoa or Where Jelly Fish come from

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 12:30:20 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley The episode discusses recent sightings of lion’s mane jelly fish on the coast of Maine and recounts the generalized dimorphic life cycle of jelly fish.

The post Essential Rhythm 4/8/21: Life cycle of the Scyphozoa or Where Jelly Fish come from first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 3/18/21: Eat like a slipper shell

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 12:33:45 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the unusual eating mechanism of slipper shells, a most unusual snail. Instead of foraging by grazing on microalgae and biofilms, they suspension feed, using mucous to transport food from their gills to their mouths.

The post Essential Rhythm 3/18/21: Eat like a slipper shell first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 3/11/21: Why you would rather be a ctenophore than a cnidarian

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 12:30:55 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode compares the digestive systems of two groups of early marine animals: Cnidarians (anemones and jelly fish) with Ctenophores (comb jellies)

The post Essential Rhythm 3/11/21: Why you would rather be a ctenophore than a cnidarian first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 3/4/21: Antifouling and sponges

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 12:25:20 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses the phenomenon of marine biofouling and the strategies sponges have evolved to prevent being overgrown by other marine organisms.

The post Essential Rhythm 3/4/21: Antifouling and sponges first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 2/25/21: Sponge Bob is not a real sponge

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 12:30:55 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces some of the basic characteristics of sponges as animals, and talks about their use as natural collectors of eDNA.

The post Essential Rhythm 2/25/21: Sponge Bob is not a real sponge first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 2/11/21: Study nature not books

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:30:38 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode recounts a personal story of seeing an eagle take a gull for a meal. It also discusses times of the year when eagles and gulls ignore each other for easier to catch prey.

The post Essential Rhythm 2/11/21: Study nature not books first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 2/4/21: Gulls as predators

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 12:30:20 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses gulls as predators of other birds, especially their impact on colonial sea birds, and the problem this poses for wildlife managers.

The post Essential Rhythm 2/4/21: Gulls as predators first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 1/28/21: Sea gull population trends

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 11:30:52 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses top down and bottom up ecological pressures that may be impacting sea gull population levels in the Gulf of Maine.

The post Essential Rhythm 1/28/21: Sea gull population trends first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 1/21/21: Gulls as sentinels

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 11:30:03 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley In this episode we discuss the potential use of gulls as sentinel species to track anthropogenic chemical pollution. Based on the generalist feeding habits, gulls are not ideal candidates for widespread monitoring.

The post Essential Rhythm 1/21/21: Gulls as sentinels first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 1/7/21: Persistent Organic Pollution

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 12:40:54 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley In this episode we take a side trip to explain how persistent organic pollutants accumulate in food webs in the environment.

The post Essential Rhythm 1/7/21: Persistent Organic Pollution first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 12/17/20: Consider the gull

WERU-FM 89.9 — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 17:46:09 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces sea gulls as a group of animals worth observing. We talk about their intelligence and feeding behavior.

The post Essential Rhythm 12/17/20: Consider the gull first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 12/31/20: In Praise of Generalists

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 12:30:24 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode talks about the trade offs for seagulls of being generalist in terms of food source, including mixed findings by researchers on the benefits of eating human refuse.

The post Essential Rhythm 12/31/20: In Praise of Generalists first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 12/17/20: Consider the gull

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 12:30:25 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode introduces sea gulls as a group of animals worth observing. We talk about their intelligence and feeding behavior.

The post Essential Rhythm 12/17/20: Consider the gull first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 12/3/20: Soft Shell Clams

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:31:37 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes the physical characteristics and evolutionary trade offs embodied by Mya arenaria, the soft shell clam.

The post Essential Rhythm 12/3/20: Soft Shell Clams first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 11/12/20: My Science Happy Place

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 11:30:36 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode describes a research project seeking to understand the populations of Mya arenaria, the soft shell clam, through exploring the settlement and recruitment of juvenile clams on the mud flats.

The post Essential Rhythm 11/12/20: My Science Happy Place first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 10/29/20: Tricky Language

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 11:30:34 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses the problematic language around invasive species with regard to inclusivity and xenophobia.

The post Essential Rhythm 10/29/20: Tricky Language first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 10/22/20: Super Low Tide

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 11:30:51 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode recounts a visit to the shore at a super low tide and the discovery of an introduced tunicate covering very available surface.

The post Essential Rhythm 10/22/20: Super Low Tide first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 10/15/20: Do Species Matter? The answer….maybe

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 11:30:45 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode uses the example of the two north Atlantic lobster species to explore further the implications of whether or not clearly defined species matter.

The post Essential Rhythm 10/15/20: Do Species Matter? The answer….maybe first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/24/20: The Problem of Pronouns

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 12:30:32 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode talks about the problem of using male pronouns as the default when the sex of an organism is unknown.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/24/20: The Problem of Pronouns first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/17/20: The problem with periwinkles (and us)

WERU-FM 89.9 — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 12:30:37 +0000

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley This episode discusses how common periwinkles can radically change intertidal ecosystems.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/17/20: The problem with periwinkles (and us) first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm 9/11/20: The Ribbon of Mystery

WERU-FM 89.9 — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:30:05 +0000

Description: This episode describes how the intertidal is conceptualized (or not). It is the zone between the datum for bathymetric depth and topographic elevation, and is complex and inconsistent in the legal definition of its ownership and management.

The post Essential Rhythm 9/11/20: The Ribbon of Mystery first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.

Essential Rhythm DEBUT 9/4/20: Welcome to the Jungle

WERU-FM 89.9 — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 12:30:30 +0000

We discuss the various difficulties of living in the intertidal zone.

The post Essential Rhythm DEBUT 9/4/20: Welcome to the Jungle first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.