Alun Salt - Botany One (Page 42)

A computer generated image of plants in the Sonoran Desert.

How the Leaf Architecture of Desert Plants Impacts Their Survival Against Herbivory

A recent study reveals that specific leaf traits, such as vein architecture and mechanical properties, play a crucial role in helping desert plants withstand herbivory damage.

Alun Salt

10 Apr 2023

Computer-generated bats flit over a landscape looking for flowers to visit.

Close Encounters

Nectar Manipulates Bats into Perfect Pollinators

A Brazilian plant manipulates bats into more effective pollination by controlling nectar secretion patterns, which encourages them to visit a variety of flowers.

Alun Salt

07 Apr 2023

Growth & Development

Wildfires Stimulate Flower Power in Prairie Plants

A new study found that wildfires increased flower and seed production in two prairie plant species, but not a related species, highlighting how plant responses to fire can vary and impact the broader plant community.

Alun Salt

06 Apr 2023

Ecosystems

Farming Techniques Impact Biodiversity in Olive Groves

A study in southern Spain shows that using cover crops instead of tillage in olive groves can significantly increase biodiversity, suggesting organic farming with cover crops or abandonment of groves for natural vegetation may be beneficial for the environment.

Alun Salt

05 Apr 2023

A close-up of an computer generated hedgehog foraging in a front garden.

Plants & People

Big gains to be made from small changes in attitudes to front gardens

A recent study highlights the health benefits of urban front garden greenery, emphasising the need to encourage planting and raise awareness about the positive impact on the local environment.

Alun Salt

04 Apr 2023

A French vineyard close to sunset in an AI generated image.

Growth & Development

How Do Grapevine Leaves Adapt to Light? New Research Sheds Light on Plant Anatomy

Researchers have developed a new theoretical framework to understand how grapevine leaves adjust their structure and function under varying light conditions, revealing that thicker, less porous leaves with specific cell shapes are key to maximizing photosynthesis in high light environments.

Alun Salt

03 Apr 2023

Plants & People

Citizen Science Boosts Models of Rare Plant Distribution

“Didn’t expect that, did ya?!” Mason Heberling [https://twitter.com/jmheberling/status/1641186012431892481]

Alun Salt

31 Mar 2023

A mansion with a tidy garden surrounded by derelict skyscrapers.

Plants & People

Improving Urban Green Spaces Can Increase Inequality

A new study suggests that increasing urban green spaces and street trees may unintentionally worsen inequality, as they can lead to neighbourhoods being infested by hipsters and property developers.

Alun Salt

30 Mar 2023

Cells, Genes & Molecules

Researchers uncover how an enzyme helps a sundew digest its victim’s DNA

Researchers have uncovered the unique structure and function of the S1-type nuclease enzyme DAN1 in the Lance-leaved sundew, Drosera adelae, which aids the carnivorous plant in breaking down prey for nutrient absorption.

Alun Salt

30 Mar 2023

Cells, Genes & Molecules

Environmental DNA Technique Sheds New Light on Pollinator Monitoring

A study reveals how environmental DNA can help monitor and conserve our vital pollinators.

Alun Salt

29 Mar 2023