Plant Cuttings

Tag: symbiosis

  • Shedding light on marine algae…

    Shedding light on marine algae…

    Dakota McCoy et al. (2024) demonstrate how heart cockles (Corculum cardissa) utilize specialized windows in their shells to focus sunlight onto symbiotic dinoflagellates for photosynthesis. The windows transmit 11–62% of photosynthetically-active radiation while filtering harmful UV rays, suggesting an adaptive advantage for both the molluscs and their symbionts.

  • When is a lichen not a lichen?

    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.

  • 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.