Ecosystems
Ancient grasslands take centuries to develop
Ecologists are discovering the growth of a biodiverse grassland community can take over a thousand years.
Growth & Development
How does Holly Oak compensate for losing leaves?
Defoliation had larger legacy effects than immediate effects.
Cells, Genes & Molecules
More DNA in golden-brown algae leads to bigger cells, but slower growth
The study fills a gap in knowledge in the effects of nuclear DNA size in single-cell algae and protists.
Close Encounters
Climate Change Spells Bad News for Bambi
Optimum vegetation for the roe deer reproductive season is coming earlier in the year, but the birth dates lagging, leaving less forage for deer at a critical time.
Computational Models
Modelling rice roots reveals how to pick up phosphorus
Combining experimentally measured single root phene datasets with a 3D continuum multiscale soilroot model enhances the mechanistic insights in soil-root processes that are important for water and P uptake.
Cells, Genes & Molecules
Topography Leaves Its Mark in Goldenrod Genetics
The variation of montane environments means that the genetics of alpine goldenrods populations differ more than their lowland cousins.
Uncategorized
Some ways to dodge the feelings of low productivity in lockdown – for a while
A few people are finding home working difficult during lockdown. Here are some ways I’ve found to make working from home a bit more bearable.
Close Encounters
Are ants a benefit or a detriment when they occupy a plant? New research says they may be both.
Research in two new papers shows how ants can interfere with pollination, but this interference is complicated.
Reviews
An author spins a black cloud of depression into gold
A diary written during depression explores the healing power of nature.
Cells, Genes & Molecules
What happens to nutrients, after a carnivorous plant has digested its prey?
While carnivorous plants eat insects, they get most of their energy from photosynthesis, like other plants. New research investigates how carnivory affects photosynthesis.
Close Encounters
Should we be looking to parasitic plants to help control invasive species?
Biologists have been looking at biological controls like herbivores to control invasive plants. New research suggests we should also look at what parasitic plants can do.
Taxonomy & Evolution
Scientists suggest bringing a fresh set of eyes to the problem, ‘When did the first flowers evolve?’
A disagreement on when flowers evolved could be solved by studying the real experts on pollination, the pollinators.