What Darwin Never Knew

What Darwin Never Knew presents a fascinating journey into the world of evolutionary biology, uncovering the hidden mechanisms that drive the diversity of life on Earth. It takes us from the Galapagos Islands to the Arctic, spanning half a billion years of animal evolution to the cutting-edge research labs of today.

The documentary focuses on answering questions that Charles Darwin himself could not resolve during his time. While Darwin’s theory of natural selection revolutionized our understanding of how species adapt and change, he lacked the tools to explain the precise mechanics of this process. Modern science has now begun to fill in these gaps, revealing the genetic underpinnings of evolution.

Through a combination of field observations and laboratory experiments, the program showcases how a new field of study, nicknamed “evo devo” (evolutionary developmental biology), is linking the enigmas of evolution to the development of embryos. This breakthrough science is providing insights into how different animals rely on similar genetic toolkits, despite their vast diversity in appearance and function.

The documentary highlights several key evolutionary mysteries, including how birds evolved from dinosaurs, why fish are considered ancestors to all four-limbed animals, and what makes humans unique among species. By examining DNA and the intricate processes of embryonic development, scientists are uncovering nature’s secrets at the genetic level.

Throughout the program, viewers are introduced to various scientists and their groundbreaking research, which is confirming Darwin’s initial insights while revealing new dimensions of life’s breathtaking diversity. The documentary demonstrates how modern scientific techniques are allowing researchers to peer “under the hood” of evolution, providing a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that Darwin could only imagine.