Close Encounters
The Nectar Thieves of the Andes: Discovering Black Metaltail Hummingbird Behaviour
When nectar is hard to reach, these Andean hummingbirds become flower robbers to get the sweet rewards.
Ecosystems
Small Islands Pack a Big Biodiversity Punch
New research shows that islands make an outsize contribution to the diversity of plants.
Computational Models
Leveraging High-Quality Data for Improved Crop Simulations
Researchers improve model prediction accuracy by closing existing data gaps.
Cells, Genes & Molecules
Effective traps in bladderworts may come at the cost of genome size
A mutation affecting mitochondrial efficiency of carnivorous plants’ cells helps them survive but also causes their DNA to get smaller over time, making their genomes some of the tiniest in the plant world.
Ecosystems
How Plants Endure Wildfires and Floods in the Pantanal
Unravelling the complex relationship between fire frequency, flooding, and plant diversity in the world’s largest flooded savanna.
Close Encounters
Seeds in Salty Conditions Germinate Better When There’s Violence
Plants may get help germinating from Little Owls.
Ecosystems
Climate change’s impact on plant phenology may lessen over time
A recent global study points out that plant responses to warming while rapid, become less intense with time.
Growth & Development
Building Botanical Bed and Breakfast for Beneficial Bugs
Domatia are special plant structures that house beneficial insects and mites, providing protection in return for pest control.
Computational Models
From Complexity to Simplicity: Assessing Light Interception Models
A new study reveals that a simple block model can achieve comparable results to complex models in assessing light interception for maize
Cells, Genes & Molecules
Unstoppable Evolution in Seed Bank Vaults
Plant seeds stored long-term naturally evolve, but seed banks remain crucial for preserving crop diversity.
Ecosystems
Renosterveld Rises From the Ashes With Surprising Diversity
Surprising diversity and resilience found in South Africa’s endangered renosterveld vegetation.
News in Brief
Plant Parasites Fool Scientists with Stealth Evolution
Parasitic plants show surprising differences when growing on different host species, despite looking alike.