Plant Anatomy
Articles tagged with Plant Anatomy
‘Nature’s algorithm’ found in Chinese money plants
A team of scientists has found a naturally occurring Voronoi pattern in the Chinese money plant, which helps explain how plants create complex patterns on their leaves. This discovery sheds light on how plants solve problems in nature and may provide new insights into the math underlying evolution and development.
Spinach study: URI researcher awarded $296,000 USDA grant for core plant research
Villouta's research aims to characterize root exudates and understand their role in plant stress and productivity in hydroponic systems. He will explore how temperature variations affect spinach growth in hydroponic environments, with the goal of improving crop viability and informing best practices for other temperature-sensitive crops.
Study identifies causes of potato dry rot in Colorado
Researchers at Colorado State University have identified four Fusarium species causing potato dry rot in the San Luis Valley, including one not previously found in the US. This study will help improve disease diagnosis and monitoring, as well as guide cultivar selection and breeding for disease resistance.
Salad packs a healthy punch to meet a growing Vitamin B12 need
Researchers used aeroponic technology to grow pea shoots fortified with Vitamin B12, delivering the recommended daily allowance in a single serving. The fortified crop maintained shelf-life and persisted through cold storage, offering a commercially viable approach to dietary supplementation.
New study reveals differences between anime bamboo muzzle and actual bamboo
Researchers compared anime illustrations with actual bamboo, finding that the proportions of the muzzle differ significantly from natural patterns. The study highlights the importance of accuracy in scientific representation and suggests potential educational applications.
Scientists empower an AI foundation model to accelerate plant research
A new method called Distributed Cross-Channel Hierarchical Aggregation (D-CHAG) accelerates analysis of hyperspectral data, enabling faster AI-guided discoveries for high-performing crops. The approach reduces computational bottleneck and increases efficiency, making it possible to extract subtle patterns in plant physiology.
This flower evolved a new shape so that different birds could pollinate it. Then, it spread.
Researchers found that the green-flowered Aeschynanthus acuminatus evolved on the mainland, not in Taiwan, and adapted to shorter-beaked birds. This contradicts the Grant-Stebbins model of plant evolution, which predicted the species would evolve in Taiwan with new pollinators.
Desperate race to resurrect newly-named zombie tree
A recently identified tree species in Australia, Rhodamnia zombi, is facing extinction due to myrtle rust, a fungal disease that attacks and kills its young shoots. Researchers are working on finding clean cuttings and propagating them to grow resistant seedlings, which may hold the key to resurrecting the 'zombie' tree.
Plant science with a twist
Researchers have found that twisted growth in plants is not due to null mutations, but rather changes in gene expression in the epidermis layer. This discovery could help crops thrive in challenging conditions with rocky soils.
New critically endangered ‘fairy lantern’ species discovered in Malaysia
Scientists have discovered a new, critically endangered plant species, Thismia selangorensis, with fewer than 20 individuals known to exist. The species is found in undisturbed forests rich in leaf litter and relies on fungi for nutrition.
Plants use engineering principles to push through hard soil
Researchers discovered that plants respond to compacted soil by thickening their roots and changing their structure, allowing them to penetrate harder. This mechanism is similar to basic engineering principles, such as a pipe's diameter and outer wall strength affecting its ability to resist buckling.
New volume explores India’s wild vegetables and their scientific, nutritional, and cultural value
This book provides an in-depth overview of 120 wild vegetable species from India's Western Ghats biodiversity region, covering their morphology, phytochemistry, traditional uses, and nutritional composition. It connects indigenous knowledge with modern plant science to promote the sustainable use of underutilized edible plants.
Researchers reveal pit-shaping module sustaining xylem hydraulics and rice grain yield
The study identified MYB61-PS1 as a critical regulatory module shaping the 3D structure of xylem vessel pits in rice, improving yield by sustaining vessel hydraulics and facilitating nitrogen transport. Rice plants harboring PS1 Hap2 displayed significantly improved nitrogen transport efficiency, leading to increased grain yield.
Announcing the Jane Silverthorne Postdoctoral Fellowship Program
The Jane Silverthorne Postdoctoral Fellowship Program provides comprehensive support for groundbreaking research in plant science. The program aims to nurture innovative scientists and foster collaboration between disciplines.
From bud to branch: How buds communicate to shape plant architecture
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have discovered a unified model that explains how plants control their architecture by integrating local and systemic signals. This breakthrough could help scientists design new strategies to optimize crop yield, resilience, and resource use.
Glow-in-the-dark succulents that recharge with sunlight
Researchers have created glow-in-the-dark succulents using light-emitting compounds that absorb and release light slowly. The plants can shine in various colors and stay lit for up to two hours after exposure to sunlight or indoor LED light.
Poplar tree discovery could help shape the future of energy and biomaterials
A University of Missouri-led study has uncovered how poplar trees can naturally adjust a key part of their wood chemistry based on changes in their environment, supporting improved bioenergy production. The discovery sheds light on the role of lignin and its potential to create better biofuels and sustainable products.
Plants feed through one-way routes
Researchers at UNIGE discovered that nutrient transport in plant roots becomes unidirectional as the root develops, with implications for enhancing plant resistance to drought stress. The study found that genetic mutants with abnormally wide plasmodesmata exhibited improved drought resilience.
Researchers identify key survival strategy for soybeans during heat and drought
Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that soybeans employ differential transpiration as a natural defense strategy to cool reproductive tissues under extreme weather conditions. This adaptation allows plants to save significant amounts of water while protecting their flowers and seed pods.
Moon-Rice: Developing the perfect crop for space-bases
The Moon-Rice project is developing a super-dwarf rice variety that can thrive in microgravity and produce high yields, addressing nutritional deficiencies in space. Researchers are also exploring ways to enrich the protein content of the crop to support astronaut health.
Behind the ballistics of the “explosive” squirting cucumber
Seeds can achieve speeds up to 29 miles per hour and reach shooting distances of up to 12 meters, propelled by high-pressure explosions. The fruit stem straightens up during ripening, creating an optimal angle for maximum distance.
Here are the flowers that both bees and humans like best
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and UK identified a set of flower mixtures that attract both pollinators and delight the human eye. The study found that seed mixes containing species like yarrow, cornflower, and purple viper's bugloss establish themselves better in soil and bloom for longer.
Motor protein myosin XI is crucial for active boron uptake in plants
Research reveals myosin XI's essential role in guiding AtNIP5;1 to its correct location on the cell membrane, enabling active boron absorption. Plants lacking myosin XI exhibit severe growth defects and reduced boron levels, highlighting the protein's critical function.
Drought-resilient plant holds promise for future food production, study finds
Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated the reversal of embolism in a type of wild grass, which can recover from extended drought within 24 hours. This finding has significant implications for improving agricultural productivity and food security, as it could potentially be bred into crops to make them more resilient...
A prolific discovery: three new orchid species endemic to Costa Rica and Panama
Researchers have identified three new Pleurothallis orchid species endemic to Costa Rica and western Panama, showcasing unique adaptations for asexual reproduction. The discovery sheds light on the importance of conserving these cloud forests, which are home to over 67 recognized species of Pleurothallis.
Why rose petals curl: Hidden geometry of nature’s beauty uncovered
Researchers at Hebrew University uncover the mathematical secret behind rose petals' unique shape, discovering MCP incompatibility causes sharp points to form. This discovery opens possibilities for designing self-shaping materials with controlled cusps, mimicking nature's elegance.
Scientists witness living plant cells generate cellulose and form cell walls for the first time
A team of Rutgers researchers captures images of living plant cells synthesizing cellulose and forming complex networks on the outer cell surface. The discovery reveals a dynamic process that may lead to more robust plants for increased food production and lower-cost biofuels.
Two-in-one root armor protects plants from environmental stressors and fights climate change
Researchers have debuted the first comprehensive gene expression atlas of the plant periderm at the single-cell level, providing new insights into phellem cells and their role in carbon storage. The atlas could be used to stimulate growth of the protective periderm in plants facing environmental stress due to climate change.
New study reveals the explosive secret of the squirting cucumber
A team of biologists and mathematicians from the University of Oxford and Manchester have solved the mystery of the squirting cucumber's explosive seed dispersal. The study used a combination of experiments, high-speed videography, image analysis, and mathematical modeling to reveal the key components of the plant's dispersal strategy.
Morton Arboretum tree root scientist recognized as top-cited researcher for second straight year
Luke McCormack, a Tree Root Biologist at The Morton Arboretum, has been recognized as one of the most cited and influential researchers worldwide. He leads the Root Biology Lab, examining root strategies to help trees cope with waterlogging and drought stress.
Study finds the secret behind the corpse flower's famous stench
A Dartmouth-led study reveals the fundamental genetic pathways and biological mechanisms behind the corpse flower's heat production and odorous chemicals. The researchers identify a new component of the corpse flower's odor, an organic chemical called putrescine, which is released when the plant blooms.
Revolutionary 3D leaf edge reconstruction method enhances plant morphology analysis
A novel approach for 3D leaf edge reconstruction improves accuracy of plant morphology analysis, enabling precise mapping of plant structures. The method uses deep-learning-based 2D instance segmentation and curve-based 3D reconstruction techniques.
Less than 7 mm in length, this Atlantic Rainforest flea toad is the second-smallest vertebrate described in the world
Brachycephalus dacnis is the seventh species of flea toad identified in the genus Brachycephalus. The study published by a group at the State University of Campinas provides detailed information about its anatomy, skeleton, and internal organs.
Canopy structure regulates autumn phenology by mediating microclimate in temperate forests: Study
A study revealed that canopy structure significantly influences local-scale variations in autumn phenology by mediating microclimate conditions. Complex canopies delay leaf senescence through reduced light availability and temperature buffering. The findings improve prediction accuracy for autumn phenology models.
Making soybeans smarter
Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.
The heat generated by the tissues of some plants has played a crucial role in the evolutionary history of insect pollination
A new study suggests that thermogenesis, the ability of plants to generate heat, has been present in seed plants for longer than previously thought. This process helps volatilize and disperse floral fragrances and other chemical compounds that attract insects.
Advanced printing crafts precision scaffolds for tissue regeneration
Researchers developed core-shell microfibrous scaffolds that excel in rotator cuff repair, restoring natural morphology and mechanical properties. The acellular, in situ tissue engineering technology harnesses stem cell regenerative abilities to provide robust biological regeneration without cell seeding.
Archaeologists report earliest evidence for plant farming in east Africa
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of early plant farming in east Africa, revealing a pattern of gradual introductions of different crops that originated from different parts of the continent. The study found domesticated cowpea, sorghum, and finger millet seeds dating back to around 2,300 years ago.
Scientists discover new plants that could lead to ‘climate-proof’ chocolate
Researchers at University College Cork have discovered three new species of Theobroma sect. Herrania in the rainforests of South America, which are closely related to the cocoa tree. These findings could lead to the development of climate-resilient cacao trees, helping sustain chocolate production.
Free-forming organelles help plants adapt to climate change
Researchers have determined the molecular level function of free-forming structures in plant cells that help sense light and temperature, enabling plants to distinguish a range of different light intensities. The formation of these organelles is not random but is linked to specific locations within the cell, particularly near centromeres.
New Japanese lily species identified, 1st addition to sukashiyuri group in 110 years
A new Japanese lily species, Lilium pacificum, has been identified after 110 years, revising the conventional classification into eight taxons. The plant has unique characteristics and is adapted to specific environments in Japan, offering clues for speciation studies.
Paper Power: Origami Technology Makes its Way into Quadcopters
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a self-folding origami gripper that can be mounted onto drones, enabling them to grasp and hold objects. The gripper weighs only 5 grams but demonstrates grasping force equivalent to holding a 130-gram object.
Artificial intelligence helps scientists engineer plants to fight climate change
Using AI software called SLEAP, scientists at Salk Institute are designing climate-saving plants with optimized root systems that can store more carbon. This approach enables researchers to analyze plant features and connect desirable traits to targetable genes, accelerating the development of carbon-capturing plants.
New sunflower family tree reveals multiple origins of flower symmetry
A new analysis of the sunflower family tree shows that flower symmetry evolved multiple times independently among its members. The research, led by Penn State biologist Hong Ma, used low-coverage genome sequences to increase the number of species available for comparison and resolved more of the finer branches of the family tree.
Machine learning used to classify fossils of extinct pollen
A new study uses machine learning to classify fossils of extinct pollen with high accuracy, leveraging morphological features and phylogenetic data. The model successfully placed nearly all specimens within Podocarpus based on their shape and form.
Weedy rice gets competitive boost from its wild neighbors
A study found that weedy rice's promiscuity allows it to crossbreed with wild rice, enabling it to adapt and outcompete cultivated rice. This process, called adaptive introgression, has contributed to the evolution of Southeast Asian weedy rice.
Asparagus and orchids are more similar than you think
A team of University of Copenhagen researchers has created a large reference catalogue of plant cell wall compositions from 287 species, representing the entire plant kingdom. The study reveals that carbohydrate composition is more closely related to a plant's family history than its habitat and growth form.
Spacing characteristics between vegetation could be a warning sign of degrading dryland ecosystems - study
A new study found that the spatial arrangement of plants in drylands can be a sign of environmental degradation. Healthy ecosystems adjust their structure to cope with stressors, but degraded ones lose this adaptability and become more prone to further decline.
New study unveils how plants control the production of reactive oxygen species
A recent study by Tokyo University of Science researchers has uncovered the mechanisms by which plants regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings, published in Physiologia Plantarum, reveal that ROS-generating enzymes are activated through two conserved mechanisms involving calcium ions and phosphorylation, ...
Complex green organisms emerged a billion years ago
A study published in Current Biology reveals that complex green organisms, including land plants and algae, evolved multicellularity almost a billion years ago. Researchers used gene sequencing data to pinpoint the emergence of this trait in filamentous algal lineages.
Riding the whims of the wind
Researchers develop a mathematical model that analyzes the future survival of plants in a changing climate by studying how far wind can carry seeds. The model provides fast and reliable predictions of seed movement, considering factors like seed type, plant height, and wind speed.
Danish researchers puncture 100-year-old theory of odd little 'water balloons'
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have found that quinoa's 'bladder cells' do not protect against salt and drought, but instead serve as a barrier against pests and diseases. The discovery could lead to more resilient quinoa varieties for global cultivation.
The impact of cold temperatures on nutrient levels in kale depends on the variety
Researchers found that cold temperatures increase glucosinolate levels in some kale varieties, while others decrease it. This affects the nutritional value of the plant, with curly kale and Lacinato kale showing different responses to temperature.
MSU researchers discover plants’ secrets to surviving daylight loss
Researchers at Michigan State University discovered that plants have fine-tuned systems to deal with varying day lengths. To survive, they adjust their photosynthetic rate and energy allocation.
Ocean acidification makes ecologically important seaweed species fragile
A study found that ocean acidification reduced the strength and density of fleshy seaweed tissues, making them more fragile and susceptible to damage. The research suggests that this could have drastic effects on coastal ecosystems, leading to a decrease in seaweed coverage and negatively impacting organisms dependent on these habitats.
AI increases precision in plant observation
Researchers at the University of Zurich developed PlantServation, a method that enables scientists to observe plants with great precision using AI and machine learning. The technique allows for the analysis of millions of images taken from various weather conditions, providing insights into how plants respond to environmental factors.
Contours that kill: Geometry influences prey capture in carnivorous pitcher plants
Researchers at the University of Oxford's Botanic Garden and Mathematical Institute have found that the shape, size, and geometry of pitcher plants determines the type of prey they trap. The study showed that large, flared rims are suited to capturing walking insects such as ants.
Seeing the insides of plants in 3D
A new technology called PHYTOMap allows researchers to study dozens of genes simultaneously without genetic manipulation, providing insights into plant responses to climate change. The method has the potential to improve crop resiliency and inform agriculture optimization.
Researchers describe the life cycle of four species of the world's most venomous caterpillars, genus Lonomia Walker, and discover new parasitoids and host plants
The study reveals the life cycles of four Lonomia Walker species, characterized by unique morphological features. New parasitoids and host plants have also been discovered, shedding light on the complex relationships within this genus.