Tag: botany
-
Evolution of Plant Cuttings
The author revisits his 2010 article on the carnivorous plant Nepenthes attenboroughii. Recognising that his communication style – and the purpose of a Plant Cutting item – has changed since that time, he presents a revised 2024 version of the news item (suitably updated for post-2010 information). Insights into Mr…
-
Iconic Mediterranean plants
Andrew Griebeler’s “Botanical icons” thoroughly examines the role of illustrations in botanical-medical texts from ancient to medieval times. It challenges prevailing views of premodern botanical art as stagnant, emphasizing the critical nature of manuscript copying. The book’s well-sourced content and excellent writing make it a valuable academic resource, providing insight…
-
Exploitation potential of plant products…
This post delves into the chemical capabilities of plants and humans’ innovation in utilizing plant compounds. It highlights the discovery of a new insecticidal protein from ferns with potential for crop protection. Additionally, it explores the creation of sustainable polymers from cellulose, offering an alternative to conventional plastics. These advancements…
-
Tree planting, a hot topic…
This post discusses the significance of trees to humans, and highlights how trees provide not only physical resources but also essential ecosystem services. While tree-planting is a popular solution to mitigate climate change, it can have unintended consequences related to global warming. Addressing these issues will require thoughtful and evidence-backed…
-
Bumblebee-bothering, pollen-pilfering honey bees
Flowers and insects have a long history of coevolution. Insects as pollinators are rewarded with nectar and pollen. Some bees exploit this and engage in nectar robbery. Honey bees in Italy have been observed stealing pollen from bumblebees, contributing to a range of pollen-gathering behaviors. Honey robbery from hives by…
-
Seed dispersal, on a wing and a prayer…
The post considers the work of Rubén Torices et al. on the role of “wings” on fruits of Anacyclus clavatus which challenges the assumption that they aid in dispersal by wind. Results show that the “wings” actually accelerate germination by aiding water absorption. Torices et al’s paper demonstrates clear experimental…
-
Plants and people – and pharmaceuticals…
This post discusses the potential pharmaceutical uses of four plants – marijuana, navy beans, thunder-god vine, and willow. It explores their impact on weight gain, weight loss, cancer prevention, and killing viruses. Specifically, it delves into the effects of marijuana on appetite, celastrol’s weight-loss potential, navy beans’ impact on gut…
-
Pollution produces photosynthetic part-timers…
The post discusses how plants work harder than commonly believed and how atmospheric aerosol pollution affects their productivity.
-
Plants, when two dimensions are enough…
“The beauty of the flower” by Stephen A. Harris explores botanical illustration as an art form and scientific tool. The book delves into the history and significance of botanical illustration, showcasing its role in documenting plant diversity and scientific knowledge. With rich illustrations and insightful narratives, Harris presents a comprehensive…
-
A deep dive into chewing-gum: Part 2
The post discusses the history, present, and potential future of chewing-gum. Amongst the topics covered are: its role in fighting COVID-19, the energetic costs of chewing it (and its relevance to human evolution), America’s ‘gum wall’, its targeted use in the Korean war, and unconventional portraiture…
Plant Cuttings 