Category: plant cutting
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Inverting cellulose-degrading enzymes
The image of a springtail emphasizes the role of soil invertebrates in decomposition,. Traditionally as shredders of organic matter they help fungi and bacteria do their work. Research by Hannah Muelbaier et al. (2024) reveals cellulose-degrading genes in soil invertebrates like springtails and mites, suggesting they may contribute more directly…
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The ‘appy botanist
This post considers the ability to identify plants as a way to enhance botanical literacy and combat plant blindness. In particular it considers plant ID apps. It concludes that, whilst such apps can be valuable in teaching novices to identify plants, they should be used alongside expert guidance to improve…
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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…
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Intriguing uses of wood: future…
This post feature futuristic uses of wood uses – a wooden satellite from Japan and the development of super-black wood by UBC researchers. The satellite, LignoSat, which is encased in magnolia wood, is due to be launched to the ISS in September 2024. The super-black wood, named Nxylon, offers various…
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Intriguing uses of wood: present…
Unusual Present-day uses of wood include innovative materials such as engineered transparent wood (ETW) and wooden circuit boards. ETW, with 80% light transmittance, is a sustainable alternative to glass and can be used in solar cells, windows, and decorative materials. Researchers are also exploring wood-based materials for sustainable electronics in…
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Intriguing uses of wood: past…
Archaeological findings in Germany validate Julius Caesar’s description of sharpened wooden stakes in his military campaign. Additionally, discoveries such as a “seahenge” and insights into mammoth-hunting highlight uses of wood by humans in days long gone.
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Wood gets 50% more interesting
The traditional classification of tree wood as hardwood or softwood has been challenged by a recent study by Jan Lyczakowski & Raymond Wightman, which identified a new category called “midwood.” This newly discovered wood type, as observed in Liriodendron tulipifera and L. chinense, may play a role in efficiently storing…
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Radishes helping themselves…
SISRH is a self-irrigating and slow-release fertilizer hydrogel developed for sustainable agriculture. It absorbs water vapour at night and releases it during the day, reducing water consumption and enhancing nutrient delivery. Initial experiments with radish show promising results, but further research is needed to determine its impact on larger-scale and…
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That’s no leopard, that’s a phytoforaging feline
This post concerns the diet of the snow leopard, a carnivore. Surprisingly, researchers found plant material in snow leopard scat, indicating potential intentional ingestion. This discovery raises questions about the reasons for this behavior, such as medicinal or nutritional purposes. The study sheds light on the snow leopard’s feeding behavior,…
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Plant-predating ‘piranha’…
This post discusses the discovery of a vegetarian fish, Myloplus sauron, in a tributary of the Amazon. Contrary to expectations, this piranha-like fish primarily feeds on plants, potentially aiding in the dispersal of plant fragments and seeds. This challenges previous assumptions about the dietary habits of similar fish species.
Plant Cuttings 