Tag: science communication
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When is a lichen not a lichen?
Chen et al. (2025) introduce a groundbreaking cyanobacterium-fungus symbiosis termed phyllosymbium, challenging traditional lichen concepts. In this unique association, the cyanobacterium envelops the fungus, displaying an unexpected structure. This discovery raises important questions about mutual benefits and interactions, broadening our understanding of symbiotic relationships in nature.
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The roles of sharp structures in plant survival strategies
The post explores the defensive roles of thorns, spines, and prickles in plants. It discusses research showing that thorns can deter herbivores, their potential aposematic coloration, and the hypothesis that they may inject pathogens into herbivores, thus adding a biological warfare aspect to their defense mechanisms.
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Moss and lichen: A deep dive into cryptogams
Elizabeth Lawson’s “Moss and Lichen” is a groundbreaking addition to Reaktion Books’ Botanical series, shifting focus from vascular to non-vascular plants and encompassing fungi. Integrating biology, ecology, and cultural relevance, the book explores the nature of mosses and lichens, their roles in ecosystems, and their significance to humanity.
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Gene-editing, taking the ouch out of touch
The post provides background on plant defenses against herbivores, focusing on prickles, thorns, and spines. It then looks in detail at work by Satterlee et al. who used CRISPR-Cas9 techniques to create prickle-free variants of aubergine and other Solanum species, potentially transforming agricultural practices and enhancing food safety during harvesting…
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Plants, biting the hand that weeds them…
By way of preamble the post discusses the multiple uses of plant fibres, especially in relation to paper in books and newspapers, and longevity of the printed word. The post then discusses research into what types of paper cause paper cuts, and how the results led to creation of the…
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The seed-spreading power of water
After providing some background on water’s unusual properties, this post considers some of the roles of water in plant biology. In particular, it looks at the work of Finn Box et al. on seed dispersal by the squirting cucumber.
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How unique are scientific names?
This post explores the uniqueness of scientific names, highlighting their limitations. Governed by various codes of nomenclature, these names can overlap across different groups of organisms, leading to such phenomena as hemihomony. The post also discusses tautonyms, which are not allowed in plant nomenclature, reflecting the complexities and idiosyncracies in…
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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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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…
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Stone is dead. Long live wood!
As we look forward to 2025, Mr P Cuttings reflects on human prehistory and the correctness of the term ‘Stone Age’. Leder et al’s studies at Schöningen suggest it should be renamed the ‘Wood Age’ due to the significance of wooden tools and woodworking skills in early human development.
Plant Cuttings 