Experts say that 90 percent of the known species on Earth are smaller than a human finger.

We'll talk with zoologist and photographer Piotr Naskrecki about what he calls the "Smaller Majority." It's the title--and subject--of his new book, which chronicles Earth's biodiversity through startling photographs.

"In recent years, more resources have been directed toward documenting and protecting smaller organisms. Public appreciation of the beauty and importance of these animals is our strongest ally in this conservation work," says Naskrecki.

Then, we'll turn our attention to sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a majority of Americans say they've had trouble getting adequate sleep.

It's not as easy as simply counting sheep for many people -- either because of busy schedules, or trouble getting to sleep. In this hour, we'll look at the latest on sleep research. From memory to Parkinson's disease, how does sleep affect our lives? Grab your pillow and tune in. Call in with your questions and comments at 1-800-989-8255 (3-4 Eastern). Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests:
Piotr Naskrecki
Author, "The Smaller Majority" (Harvard University Press, 2005)
Director, Invertebrate Diversity Initiative, Conservation International
Research Associate, Museum of Comparative Zoology
Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Carlos Schenck
Senior Staff Physician
Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Robert Stickgold
Associate Professor of Psychiatry
Harvard Medical School
Boston, Massachusetts

Books/Articles Discussed:

"The Smaller Majority," by Piotr Naskrecki. Harvard University Press, 2005.

(find books discussed on previous broadcasts)

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This segment produced by Annette Heist