115. The Genitalia Arms Race! with Dr. Patty Brennan
Episode 1 of Series 13 Transcript
In this episode, Dr. Patricia Brennan explores the evolutionary battles between male and female genital adaptations, revealing how animals like ducks and dolphins develop complex reproductive strategies. Through her work, she highlights the surprising ways that nature grants females reproductive autonomy despite intense sexual conflict.
Guest Bio: Dr. Patricia Brennan is an evolutionary biologist specializing in reproductive anatomy and sexual selection, with research spanning birds, snakes, bats, dolphins, and sharks. Originally from Colombia, she earned her undergraduate degree in Marine Biology and conducted marine mammal research around the Galápagos before shifting her focus to birds during her PhD at Cornell University. Her groundbreaking work on avian genitalia has expanded to broader studies on genital coevolution, exploring how reproductive structures evolve in response to mating strategies. Now based in Amherst, MA, she continues to lead innovative research, currently supported by an NSF Career Grant to study genital evolution in snakes.
Book Recommendations: Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage by Rachel Gross and Bitch: On the Female of the Species by Lucy Cooke
Related Episodes: E22: Ecofeminism and Entangled Empathy with Lori Gruen
57: Valentines Special!: Furry Fandom with Victoria Gersdorf
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