Plant Cuttings

Tag: plant ecology

  • 24 hours of flower power…

    24 hours of flower power…

    “Flower Day” by Sandra Knapp presents 24 mini-essays on diverse plants, highlighting their biology, ecology, and ethnobotanical significance. The book reflects on floral beauty and the intricate relationships between plants, pollinators, and indigenous knowledge, fostering appreciation for nature while emphasizing the need to protect it amidst environmental threats.

  • Predictable red tides? [From algae to rice plants… II]

    Predictable red tides? [From algae to rice plants… II]

    This post discusses dinoflagellates and red tides. In particular it considers Karenia brevis and work by Shen Jean Lim et al., who have identified viruses in K. brevis harmful algal bloom (HABs). This discovery suggests potential viral control methods for mitigating such red tides and improving early warning of them.

  • The phytoplanktonic paradox [From algae to rice plants… I]

    The phytoplanktonic paradox [From algae to rice plants… I]

    Research by Muratore et al. reveals that different phytoplankton species exploit phosphorus at varied times, suggesting ‘temporal niche partitioning’ as a potential solution to the phytoplankton paradox and underlining the intricate dynamics of marine ecosystems.

  • Exploring the Evolutionary Roots of Oaks

    Exploring the Evolutionary Roots of Oaks

    Andrew L Hipp’s “Oak Origins” explores the evolutionary history of oak trees while also addressing broader themes in biology, genetics, and ecology. Although scholarly the book is accessible to an intelligent audience, and is filled with detailed insights into oak species, their genetics, and ecological significance. The text is complemented…

  • That’s no leopard, that’s a phytoforaging feline

    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,…

  • Plant-predating ‘piranha’…

    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.

  • The ultimate plant cutting(!)

    The ultimate plant cutting(!)

    The natural world showcases various inter-kingdom collaborations, such as ants farming fungi. Research by Daniela Römer et al. reveals how leaf-cutter ants precisely excise leaf fragments, shedding light on their intricate cutting mechanism.