Welcome to Ask A Biologist. This site has a large collection of biology learning materials that includes stories, games, activities, videos, and a podcast.

Our biological sex is mainly controlled by our sex chromosomes. But sex hormones also influence what body parts and characteristics we have.

Desert flowers do not own the spot light when it comes to beauty. Many desert fruits deserve equal attention.Also in: Español | Français

Is there any way to prevent pregnancy after sexual intercourse? Learn about Plan B, an emergency contraceptive.
For many organisms, reproduction is a huge part of life. But what, exactly, does reproduction mean? Well, it can mean so many different things, including breeding or not, caring for young (or not), or giving birth (or not). Read on to learn about the diversity of ways that organisms reproduce.

If you are a tobacco plant, you have a bad reputation. The link to cancer and other health related diseases is cause for any person to avoid you. But there is another side to this plant. Dr. Biology sits down with biologist Charlie Arntzen to talk about how tobacco plants are…

These fluttering icons of North America are a favorite of many people across the world, but they may be having some population problems. Don’t worry though, there are ways you can help. Conservation specialist Gail Morris talks with our student guest host Kayna Lantz…

Dr. Biology drops in on biologist Michael Angelletta and the researchers in his laboratory. Besides getting a fun tour of the place, he learns how they study animals and their methods of heating and cooling their bodies.

"Your home has termites" – is not something anyone wants to hear. But these insects are really important for our survival. Dr. Biology learns about these insects from entomologist, Barbara Thorn. It turns out that these critters are like tiny 'green machines' and one of the…

nervous system in the body

A Nervous Experiment

Do you think you need the same number of nerves in every part of your body? Where in your body might you need more nerves? See for yourself! Also in:…

COVID-19 game simulation

COVID SIM Pandemic Simulation

Explore COVID SIM

In the COVID-19 pandemic, how much does wearing masks and distancing matter? How important is it to get vaccinated? You can…

Comparative physiology game

Frankenstein's Lab

Play Frankenstein's Lab

Dr. Frankenstein needs your help to learn about how the bodies of different animals work! Build your own…

An illustration of pea pods with different genes (yellow and green, and round and wrinkled)

Genetics Game

Play Garden Gene Genius

Our genes control much of how we look and who we are. But do you really know how genetics work? Take a moment to gather some…

Cell viewer game

Cell Parts Game

Explore the Cell Viewer Game

Cells are the basic building blocks of life, but what all do cells hold? You can now look inside of cells to learn…