Evolution of Multicellularity in the Ancestors of Animals - Hydrodynamic Performance and Selective Factors

Explore the pivotal transition from unicellular protozoan ancestors to multicellular animals in this 1-hour 11-minute lecture. Delve into the study of choanoflagellates as model systems to understand the functional consequences and selective factors influencing the evolution of multicellularity. Examine high-speed microvideography and mathematical modeling techniques used to investigate water flow produced by solitary cells and colonies of various designs and sizes. Discover the trade-offs between feeding and swimming performance, and learn how different colony configurations affect predator avoidance strategies. Gain insights into the potential advantages of form flexibility in ancestral organisms and its implications for the evolution of multicellular animals.