When visiting Moab, it’s easy to be enthralled with the massive geology of red-rock cliffs, canyons, and arches, but on close inspection any visitor can discover a world of microscopic wonders right beneath their feet. In this episode of Utah Unearthed, the team speaks to Dr. Tim Graham, a pothole ecologist and self-described “desert rat” who has spent the last 40 years on the Colorado Plateau studying desert potholes and the fascinating invertebrates they contain. Upon hearing Graham express his long-lasting wonder for tadpole shrimp, fairy shrimp, and other hearty invertebrates that inhabit Utah’s ephemeral pools—along with their strategies for survival, any listener will be inspired to get down on their belly (as long as the sandstone isn’t scorching hot) for a closer look at the next pothole they find. Be sure to bring a magnifying glass!

The hosts of Utah Unearthed include Aidan Bailey, an NHMU school outreach coordinator, Dr. Randy Irmis, NHMU’s curator of paleontology, and Andy Connolly, a former NHMU science communications specialist who now works with the Kansas Geological Survey. The show is produced and edited by Mark Johnston. Series logo by Will Shepherd.

In each episode of Utah Unearthed, the team interviews a different scientist from a different discipline, who will help both hosts and listeners unearth Utah’s incredible natural history. This podcast supports NHMU's mission to illuminate the natural world and the place of humans within it. Learn more at ⁠nhmu.utah.edu/podcast⁠.