Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Naturalis Biodiversity Center


Why plants worldwide became woody

Researchers discovered a link between increased drought and increased wood formation in plant stems on islands. The study found over three times as many insular woody species as previously known, with over 175 independent transitions. This research offers promising avenues for agriculture to increase drought tolerance and food production.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 9, 2022

Evolution peaks on tropical mountain

Research on Mount Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo found that most endemic species are younger than the mountain itself and have evolved to adapt to cooler conditions. The study revealed two groups of unique species, with some originating from far-away areas and others evolving from local species.