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Why the insect brain is so incredible - Anna Stöckl

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TEDEd Animation

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The human brain is one of the most sophisticated organs in the world, a supercomputer made of billions of neurons that control all of our senses, thoughts, and actions. But there was something Charles Darwin found even more impressive: the brain of an ant, which he called “one of the most marvelous atoms of matter in the world.” Anna Stöckl takes us inside the tiny but mighty insect brain.

The sense of smell in insects and humans has evolved via different paths from different origins, and yet the brain structures dedicated to it are very similar. This is a prime example of convergent evolution. Can you think of other examples of convergent evolution in the animal kingdom?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Anna Stöckl
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Director Gal Shkedi
  • Animator Gal Shkedi
  • Sound Designer Gal Shkedi
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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