Forget everything you think you know about viruses. In the ocean, there are viral giants so large they were mistaken for bacteria for decades – and they're rewriting the rules of marine ecology.

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of giant viruses with Benjamin Minch, a PhD student at the University of Miami who has discovered over 230 previously unknown viral genomes using a revolutionary computational tool called BEREN. These microscopic monsters can hijack photosynthesis, manipulate their hosts like puppet masters, and dramatically reshape ocean food webs.

Giant viruses are up to 100 times larger than common viruses, with genomes rivaling those of bacteria. Some enhance their hosts' superpowers – boosting photosynthesis and metabolism – before turning infected cells into viral factories. Others cause victims to clump together and sink as marine snow, playing crucial roles in carbon sequestration and climate regulation.

From the Baltic Sea's viral treasure trove to practical applications like predicting harmful algal blooms, this episode explores how invisible giants influence everything from ocean food webs to global nutrient cycles. Discover why the ocean's biggest players might also be its smallest.

Links:

• BEREN tool: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.10.09.617401v1
• Ben's research publications: https://idsc.miami.edu/pegasus-powered-giant-virus-study-yields-publicly-shared-bioinformatics-tool/

Join us as we explore the cutting-edge world of underwater technology with Liz Taylor, President of DOER Marine Operations. Discover how this innovative company has been transforming ocean exploration since 1992, from developing human-occupied submersibles to creating mobile science labs from shipping containers.

In this fascinating conversation, Liz shares the story behind the Honu project - a groundbreaking initiative creating dual-purpose submersibles for scientific research and tourism in Mission Blue Hope Spots. Learn how DOER is tackling "parachute science" by building local capacity and creating sustainable ocean exploration models.

As the daughter of legendary oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, Liz brings a unique perspective on ocean conservation and the importance of direct human observation in understanding marine ecosystems. She challenges us to take "the hundred-year view" on ocean stewardship while sharing exciting developments in underwater technology.

Whether you're interested in marine technology, sustainable tourism, or ocean conservation, this episode offers an inspiring look at innovative approaches to exploring and protecting our blue planet.

Learn more about DOER Marine at https://www.doermarine.com/

Learn more about Honu at https://www.honusubs.com/

You can find Liz and Sylvia's Podcast "Dive In" at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7kUbDSy4Lo6QGIEO8KgCdhxMnONw5R3W