Tag: state your sources
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A botanical conundrum solved (sort of…)
The post follows-up on a previous post that considered how much of the plant’s photosynthesis is used in root mucilage production. In particular it discusses the challenges in verifying % claims from Wikipedia and McNear Jr. Mr P Cuttings emphasises careful source citation and acknowledges that the puzzle remains unresolved.
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A botanical conundrum: HELP, please!
The post discusses the substantial – but source-substantiated – amount of energy plants use secreting root mucilage, estimated at 10-40% of their photosynthesized carbon. Mr P Cuttings expresses scepticism about these high figures, noting lower estimates from earlier studies. To clarify this discrepancy, a full copy of Newman’s 1985 article…
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24 hours in the botanical 8th continent
Tree day by Meg Lowman explores the intricate biology and ecology of trees, focusing on 24 species through personal anecdotes and insights from her extensive fieldwork. The book emphasizes the ecological significance of tree canopies and is a charming introduction to tree biology, and the daily life of an arbornaut.
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Celebrating dendrochronology and dendrochronologists
In the Circle of Ancient Trees, edited by Valerie Trouet, explores dendrochronology and its significance through ten extraordinary tree species. The book combines scientific insight with human interest stories from dendrochronologists, highlighting the intertwined relationship between trees and society. Engaging essays are complemented by illustrations, though source citation remains a…
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Obscure fungal photofest
Funga obscura by Alison Pouliot is a beautifully written exploration of fungi, combining evocative text with stunning photography from various global locations. The book offers insights into the ecological significance of fungi, their relationships with other organisms, and the author’s philosophical approach to capturing their essence, making it a captivating…
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Delivering your daily dose of fungi
“Mushroom Day” by Alison Pouliot is a delightful book featuring 24 essays on distinct fungi, each enriched with illustrations by Stuart Patience. Exploring various aspects of fungi folklore, biology, and conservation, it is written in engaging language. Pouliot aims to rekindle interest in the diverse world of fungi.
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Did Linnaeus invent binomial nomenclature?
The post discusses the origins of binomial nomenclature, often attributed solely to Carl Linnaeus. It reveals that while Linnaeus popularized and standardized the system, earlier forms existed, notably by Caspar Bauhin. The conclusion emphasizes that Linnaeus did not invent binomial nomenclature, but should be credited with its consistent application.
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And these are remarkable trees…
The 2024 edition of Remarkable Trees by Christina Harrison and Tony Kirkham offers an extensive exploration of over 60 significant tree species, incorporating fascinating cultural stories. While it features lush illustrations and thorough entries, it lacks clear sourcing for factual statements and shows minimal updates from the previous edition, raising…
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These plants really are remarkable…
Remarkable Plants by Helen and William Bynum is a richly illustrated exploration of the complex relationships between plants and people. While this 2023 edition repackages their 2014 text with no major updates, it still offers engaging narratives and facts about significant plants and their cultural impacts (and is £5 cheaper…)..
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What’s in a name? The case of Barnes’ stolon
The article critiques Simon Barnes’ definition of a stolon, suggesting it is inaccurately identified as an underground stem, when it is typically considered an above-ground organ. Mr P Cuttings urges greater academic rigour in botanical literature, emphasizing the importance of citing sources to prevent misinformation, and enhance botanical literacy, among…
Plant Cuttings 