Life: The Complete Story

40 Episodes
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By: Life: The Complete Story

Join Alex and Tyler, two young biologists as they seek to climb the tree of life. Follow us weekly as we go in-depth on the Living World from Domain to Species and everything in between. From sponges to squirrels and protists to pigeons we've got you covered as we discuss Life: The Complete Story.

Winter Wildlife Wonders: Frogs and More
Today at 12:18 AM

In this episode, Alex and Tyler explore a variety of topics ranging from winter wildlife adaptations to innovative carbon capture technologies. They delve into the fascinating world of frogs, particularly the Neobatrachia group, and discuss various families of amphibians found in tropical and African ecosystems. The conversation also highlights the ecological role of duckweed and the hidden squeaker frog, as well as the concept of ecosystem stratification in mountainous regions. Finally, they touch on the ancient lineage of caudates, providing insights into the evolution of modern salamanders.


More Mesobatrachia and Cold Weather Kabooms
01/26/2026

In this episode, Alex and Tyler explore various topics related to nature and ecology, including the phenomenon of tree explosions due to freezing temperatures, the impact of marine dark waves on ocean ecosystems, and the unique adaptations of different frog species. They also discuss invasive species like the Japanese Barberry and delve into ancient amphibians such as the Temnospondyli, while explaining the concept of survivorship curves in relation to breeding strategies.


From Frogs to Fire: Nature's Resilience
#6
01/21/2026

The conversation covers a range of topics, including the failure of New Year's resolutions, the impact of cold weather, the Ordovician mass extinction, the evolution of amphibians, various frog families, the Nagaland Asian Toad, the impact of feral pigs, the Beasel Bufo frog, and the ecology of wildfires.

Takeaways

New Year's resolution failureImpact of cold weatherOrdovician mass extinctionEvolution of amphibiansFrogs and their familiesNagaland Asian ToadFeral pigs and their impactBeasel Bufo frogEcology of wildfires

Chapters

00:00 New Year's Resolution Failure09:59 Frogs and Their Families16:46 Nagaland Asian Toad28:16 Beasel Bufo Frog33:27 Ecology of...


Freeaky Frogs, Early Amphibians
01/05/2026

The conversation covers a range of topics including favorite seasons, nature in the news, frogs and toads, Ascaphidae, Bombina Torridae, African Clawed Frog, metamorphosis, and Microsauria.

Takeaways

Seasonal preferencesFrog and toad diversity

Chapters

00:00 Favorite Season06:09 Nature in the News11:54 Ascaphidae18:24 Bombina Torridae26:32 African Clawed Frog33:06 Metamorphosis38:40 Microsauria


New Year, New Amphibians: A Fresh Start
#4
12/29/2025

In this conversation, the hosts discuss their New Year's resolutions, the discovery of new species, and the characteristics of amphibians and frogs. They explore the challenges of staying consistent with podcasting, the significant increase in species discovery, and the diverse features and behaviors of amphibians and frogs. The conversation delves into the fascinating defense mechanisms of frogs, highlighting their unique adaptations for survival. It then explores the significance of frog species, their ecological roles, and their impact on various aspects of human life. The discussion also covers the Harlequin Frog, the Proto-Frog Notobatrachus, and an in-depth look at prevailing...


Sirens, Mudpuppies, and more Awesome Amphibians
#3
12/22/2025

In this episode, Alex and Tyler discuss various topics ranging from personal updates during the holiday season to the fascinating world of salamanders. They explore ancient ocean predators, the different suborders of salamanders, and their unique adaptations. The conversation also highlights critically endangered species and environmental issues such as desertification, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts.


Super Salamanders
#2
12/14/2025

The conversation covers the most deadly animal per size, primary succession on Surtsey island, and an exploration of salamanders and their characteristics. The conversation covered salamander species, hibernation, and brumation. It began with an exploration of various salamander species, followed by a continuation of the salamander talk and an introduction to the Eastern Hellbender. The discussion then shifted to hibernation, covering its definition, types, and adaptations, including brumation in amphibians.




Out of the Sea. Into Amphibians
#1
12/08/2025

The conversation covers a range of topics, including dream pets, amphibians, the chytrid fungus, and mimicry in ecology. It provides insights into the unique adaptations of amphibians, the impact of the chytrid fungus on amphibian populations, and the significance of mimicry in the natural world.



The Final Chapter of Fish: A Transition to Tetrapods
#53
10/14/2025

In this episode of 'Life, the Complete Story', hosts Alex and Tyler explore various topics related to fish, particularly focusing on lobe-finned fish, including coelacanths and lungfish. They discuss the significance of sustainable feeding practices in rice cultivation, the evolutionary importance of these fish, and delve into the intricacies of DNA replication and its implications for life. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of ecology, evolution, and biology, emphasizing the need for awareness and understanding of these subjects.


Precious Percomorphs, Our Last Teleosts| Episode 52
#52
09/26/2025

This conversation delves into the fascinating world of fish, particularly focusing on the Ovalentaria order. The hosts discuss various families of fish, including silversides, rainbow fish, and cusk eels, highlighting their unique adaptations and ecological significance. The conversation also touches on environmental issues, such as the shrinking Great Salt Lake, and the importance of these fish species in their respective habitats. This conversation delves into the fascinating world of fish, exploring their unique anatomical features, diverse families, adaptations, reproductive behaviors, ecological roles, conservation issues, and the impact of invasive species. The discussion also highlights the significance of ocean currents...


Deep-Sea Dangers| Episode 51
#51
09/14/2025

In this episode of 'Life the Complete Story', hosts Alex and Tyler discuss seasonal changes, delve into a breakthrough in artificial photosynthesis, explore various deep sea fish, highlight the invasive gypsy moth, and examine the critically endangered angel shark. They also cover genetic drift and its implications for species survival, providing insights into ecology and conservation.


The Big Blue News |Episode 50
#50
09/08/2025

In this episode, Alex and Tyler discuss exciting personal news about Alex's upcoming baby boy, delve into a fascinating nature story about feral pigs turning blue due to rodent bait, and explore the deep sea fish families of Polymixiforms and Baryceforms. They also address the impacts of natural disasters on ecosystems, highlighting the importance of ecological resilience and the role of invasive species in altering habitats.


Our Best Episode, No Codding
#49
08/31/2025

In this episode, Alex and Tyler discuss various topics ranging from their favorite school subjects to the impact of climate change on ecosystems. They delve into the melting of glaciers, the surge in phytoplankton growth, and the characteristics of gataforms and cod species. The conversation highlights the importance of cod in fisheries and the concept of trophic cascades, illustrating how the decline of a keystone species like the Atlantic cod can disrupt entire ecosystems. They also touch on the burbot, a freshwater cod species, and conclude with reflections on the interconnectedness of nature.


Disc Fish-Dories and Oreos| Episode 48
#48
08/24/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex discuss the transition from summer to autumn, the exciting conclusion of their fish series, and delve into various marine topics including microbiology breakthroughs, the unique characteristics of Xeiforms, and the ecological significance of the tube eye fish. They also highlight the vulnerable Sonogad trout and the invasive killer shrimp, before wrapping up with a discussion on the greenhouse effect and its implications for climate change.


Exploring the Unique World of Percopsiforms| Episode 47
#47
08/19/2025

In this episode of 'Life the Complete Story', hosts Alex and Tyler discuss various topics related to ecology, including the invasive spotted lanternfly, the unique characteristics of percopsiforms, and the importance of succession in ecosystems. They also delve into the vulnerabilities of cave fish and the ecological impacts of invasive species. The conversation highlights personal updates, nature news, and the significance of understanding ecological relationships.


The Stuff of Legends| Episode 46
#46
08/12/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex discuss various topics ranging from podcast announcements to the impact of heat waves on marine ecosystems. They delve into the fascinating world of lanternfish and lampreforms, highlighting their ecological significance. The conversation also covers the conservation challenges faced by the scalloped hammerhead shark and the invasive nature of the purple loosestrife plant. Finally, they explore the concept of plate tectonics and its ecological implications.


Nightmares of the Deep| Episode 45
#45
07/15/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex discuss the challenges of summer heat and the importance of hydration. They delve into a recent study about honey bees and their impact on native pollinators, highlighting the ecological balance. The conversation shifts to deep sea fish, exploring their unique adaptations and habitats. They also feature the Bombay Duck, a popular food fish facing overfishing issues. Finally, they emphasize the critical role of wetlands in flood prevention and ecological health.


Super Smelts| Episode 44
#44
07/04/2025

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various animals and their public perceptions, focusing on the negative PR surrounding certain species like vultures and the aye-aye. They explore the importance of conservation efforts for these misunderstood animals. The discussion then shifts to freshwater smelts, their families, and the unique characteristics of the noodle fish. The hosts also highlight the New Zealand Grayling, an extinct species, and the rainbow smelt, an invasive species affecting native fish populations. Finally, they delve into the concept of biomes, explaining how they classify ecosystems and their significance in ecology.


AI and Climate Change: A New Era| Episode 43
#43
06/23/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex discuss various topics ranging from AI's role in creating climate-friendly cement to the fascinating world of deep-sea fish known as stoma forms. They also touch on the conservation status of the northern white rhino, which is functionally extinct, and explore the concept of sexual dimorphism in the animal kingdom, highlighting how different species exhibit varying traits between genders.


Episode 42| Marvels of Migration
#42
06/17/2025

In this engaging conversation, Tyler and Alex explore various themes related to fishing, ecology, and the fascinating world of fish species. They discuss their personal fishing experiences, delve into the importance of Madagascar's lizards in reforestation, and provide insights into the Salmoniformes family, including pike, trout, and salmon. The conversation also touches on the invasive nature of rainbow trout and the migratory patterns of fish, culminating in a discussion about the Aquitainean Pike and its conservation status.


Episode 41| A New Missing Link?!?!
#41
06/04/2025

In this episode of 'Life, the Complete Story', hosts Tyler and Alex discuss various topics in marine biology, including the evolution of tetrapods, the fascinating world of marine smelts, and the importance of the carbon cycle in ecology. They also highlight the success story of the endangered Tequila Splitfin and explore unique adaptations of deep-sea species. The conversation is filled with insights into nature, conservation, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.


Episode 40| River Kitties and Catfish
#40
05/21/2025

Welcome back everyone, after a month of recording editing and many other events, we return with an absolute banger of an episode. This conversation delves into the fascinating world of catfish, exploring their diversity, ecological importance, and the unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in various environments. The discussion also highlights the significance of microbiology in understanding catfish health, the challenges of conservation for endangered species, and the innovative research that is shaping our knowledge of these aquatic creatures. This conversation delves into the fascinating world of microorganisms, their role in breaking down plastics, and the diverse species...


Episode 39| Spring Awakening: Nature's Changes
#39
03/31/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex explore the transition of seasons, focusing on the awakening of nature in spring and the fascinating world of birds, which are considered modern-day dinosaurs. They delve into the evolution of feathers from proto-feathers, discuss various families of tetras, and highlight the endangered Hinochelus Wheatlandi. The conversation also covers the invasive African Tigerfish and concludes with a detailed overview of photosynthesis, emphasizing its critical role in sustaining life on Earth.


Episode 38| Characiformes
#38
03/27/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex explore various themes in nature, including the wonders of wildlife, the biases in bird research, the diversity of freshwater fish, the impact of invasive species like the red-bellied pacu, and the environmental issue of eutrophication. They discuss the importance of understanding these topics for wildlife conservation and environmental science.


Episode 37| Carpy Diem
#37
03/18/2025

In this episode, Alex and Tyler explore various themes related to nature, including the significance of whale urine in nutrient cycling, the diverse family of true carps, and the impact of invasive species like the grass carp. They also delve into the biosphere and its layers, discussing ecosystems, communities, populations, and individual organisms. The conversation is rich with insights into the interconnectedness of life and the importance of understanding our environment.


Episode 36| Exploring Wildlife: Butterflies and Loaches
#36
03/09/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex discuss various topics related to wildlife, including the significance of World Wildlife Day, the alarming decline of butterfly populations, and the importance of conservation efforts. They delve into the fascinating world of loaches, exploring their diversity and ecological roles, while also touching on the geologic time scale and mass extinctions. The episode concludes with a focus on specific endangered species, including the kissing loach and the weather loach, highlighting the challenges posed by invasive species and the need for responsible pet ownership.


Episode 35| Exploring the Depths of Cypriniformes
#35
02/23/2025

In this episode, hosts Alex and Tyler discuss their recent experiences, including a trip to Hawaii, before diving into the scientific exploration of Cypriniformes, particularly focusing on the ecological impacts of climate change and algal blooms. They provide an in-depth look at various fish species, their habitats, and conservation efforts, while also examining the dynamics of predator-prey relationships in ecosystems. The conversation is rich with insights into biodiversity and the importance of understanding aquatic life.


Episode 34| Introduction to Gonorrhynchiformes: The Milkfish
#34
02/10/2025

In this episode, hosts Alex and Tyler explore a variety of topics related to aquatic life, including their favorite fish, the impact of AI on environmental science, and a deep dive into cephaliforms and platyrochids. They also discuss the critically endangered Celebes crested macaque and the invasive red shiner species, emphasizing the importance of conservation and responsible pet ownership. The episode concludes with a reminder to keep learning about the natural world.


Episode 33| Deep Dive into Aleppocephaliforms
#33
02/01/2025

In this episode, hosts Alex and Tyler explore a variety of topics related to aquatic life, including their favorite fish, the impact of AI on environmental science, and a deep dive into cephaliforms and platyrochids. They also discuss the critically endangered Celebes crested macaque and the invasive red shiner species, emphasizing the importance of conservation and responsible pet ownership. The episode concludes with a reminder to keep learning about the natural world.


Episode 32| Exploring the World of Clupeiforms
#32
01/27/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex explore the fascinating world of clupeiforms, a group of ray-finned fish that includes herrings, sardines, and anchovies. They discuss the ecological significance of these fish, their role in marine food webs, and the conservation status of related species like snow leopards. The conversation also touches on the impact of invasive species like the alewife in North America and highlights the endangered Otter Civet. Additionally, they introduce the concept of allelopathy, explaining its relevance in ecological interactions.


Episode 31| Magnificent Morays
#31
01/20/2025

In this episode, hosts Alex and Tyler discuss various topics ranging from winter weather experiences to the fascinating biology of octopuses and moray eels. They delve into the unique features of eels, the conservation status of the Andean bear, and the impact of invasive species like purple loosestrife on local ecosystems. The conversation also covers the ecological importance of the littoral zone in both freshwater and marine environments, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species and habitats.


Episode 30| Eels Uncovered: The Fascinating World of Anguilliformes
#30
01/16/2025

In this episode, Tyler and Alex engage in a lively discussion about various animal species, particularly focusing on eels. They explore the complexities of wildlife trade, delve into the fascinating world of anguilliformes, and discuss the ecological significance of riparian zones. The conversation is rich with insights into animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of biodiversity.


Episode 29| Bonefish and Deep Sea Mysteries
#29
01/10/2025

n this episode, Alex and Tyler discuss various topics ranging from winter greetings to deep-sea fish species. They delve into evolutionary dynamics, focusing on predator-prey interactions and the significance of the Cambrian explosion. The conversation shifts to bonefish and their characteristics, followed by an exploration of deep-sea spiny eels and the challenges posed by invasive aquatic plants like hydrilla. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of learning and the anticipation of future discussions.


Episode 28| Terrific Tarpons and Lovely Ladyfish
#28
12/31/2024

In this episode, Tyler and Alex reflect on their New Year's resolutions, discuss recent scientific advancements in genetically modifying plants to remove toxins, and delve into the fascinating world of Elopiformes, including tarpon and ladyfish. They also address the ecological impact of invasive species like the mosquito fish and the conservation challenges facing the Atlantic tarpon, highlighting the importance of habitat preservation and responsible fishing practices.


Episode 27| Exploring the Depths of Freshwater Fish
#27
12/26/2024

In this episode, Tyler and Alex explore various themes related to freshwater fish, including their anatomy, the impact of coral bleaching on fisheries, and the significance of invasive species like goldfish. They delve into the fascinating world of arowanas and elephant fish, discussing their unique features, habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild. The conversation also highlights the importance of coral reefs and the ecological balance within aquatic ecosystems.


Episode 26| Apex Predators: The Gars and Bowfin Explained
#26
12/16/2024

Hello everyone! In this week's episode of Life:The Complete Story, we discuss some of the most ancient predators from freshwater. Gars and Bowfin as we know them have been around for millions of years and have made plenty of adaptions over time to be the top predators they are today.

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Episode 25| Super Sturgeons
#25
12/09/2024

Welcome back to another episode of Life: The Complete Story. In today's episode we start our long endeavor into the realm of bony fish. Did you know that sturgeons are some of the longest surviving species of fish?


Episode 24: Freaks of the Deep
#24
12/02/2024

Hello everyone, Welcome back to Life: The Complete Story. This week we feature the chimeras or ratfish, the creepy conglomerations living in the abyss of the sea.

As always, your feedback matters. Let us know what you want to see and we'll do our best to make it happen


Episode 23 Stingers, Skates and Sawblades
#23
11/25/2024

Welcome back to Life: The Complete Story. Today we discuss Batomorphs! Also known as Skates and Rays, Batomorphs are the largest group of the Order Elasmobranchii.

We hope you all enjoyed this episode and can't wait to see you next time.


Episode 22| More Super Sharks
#22
11/11/2024

Hello Everyone, welcome back to Life: The Complete Story! Today the boys get into the second half of the sharks talking about some more primitive species.

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