Plot twist: We're probably way undercounting insects on Earth
This episode of NPR's Shortwave explores three major scientific developments: a new estimate suggesting there may be up to 20 million insect species on Earth, the discovery of 31 ancient quasars using the Euclid space telescope, and a study revealing that California wolves are primarily p
Sign up to read the full summary
Free AI-powered recaps of every episode, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Guest
Scott Detrow
narrative on Short Wave
Mentions
Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.
People
Companies
Products & Tools
Research & Papers
Topics
Listen to This Episode
More from Short Wave
How much of Earth's life is still undiscovered?
The problem with modern avocados — and the ancient solution
Could air pollution make your memory worse?
Why scientists are stoked about mysterious black hole stars
The magic — and science — of synchronous fireflies
The genetic secret helping bats survive a deadly epidemic
Related episodes
From other shows on similar topics.
Where Have The Insects Gone?? With Dr. Jessica Ware
Science Vs
NPR News: 09-02-2026 11AM EDT
NPR News Now
The Basement: Dan Flores | Ice Age Giants, Camels in America, and Coyote Resilience
The Why Files: Operation Podcast
Bringing Extinct Species Back to Life | Dr. Beth Shapiro
Huberman Lab
How to beat mosquitoes
Today, Explained
How to Waste Less Food and Save Money & Why Insects Rule the World -SYSK Choice
Something You Should Know
Get summaries like this every morning.
Free AI-powered recaps of Short Wave and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.