Add BrightSurf on Google Email
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

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.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 22, 2023

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.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

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.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Plants·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Scientists hoodwinked by touch-me-not plants for decades

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University identify vital differences between the plants, including pollinators and lifespan, confirming their classification. The study highlights the importance of recognizing every species for conservation programs.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalNordic Journal of Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Leaf-like photosynthesis discovered in the roots of a leafless orchid

A recent study by Kobe University researchers discovered that a leafless epiphytic orchid can conduct sophisticated photosynthesis through its roots, similar to leaves. The discovery reveals that the plant's roots carry out photosynthesis in a crassulacean acid metabolism manner.

SourceKobe University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeCase study·DateMar 7, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Understanding plants can boost wildland-fire modeling in uncertain future

A new framework incorporates plant physiology into fine-scale computer models of wildland fire, improving global fire forecasting. Plants' water and carbon dynamics influence combustion and heat transfer, affecting fire behavior and effects.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeObservational study·DateJan 31, 2023

Plants employ chemical engineering to manufacture bee-luring optical devices

Cambridge researchers discovered that plants regulate the chemistry of their petal surface to create microscopic three-dimensional patterns reflecting different wavelengths of light, visible to bees. These patterns act as diffraction gratings producing an iridescent optical effect, which is essential for attracting pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

3D flora and fauna at your fingertips

Researchers at Kyushu University developed a new method to create highly detailed 3D models of plants and animals. Over 1,400 models are now publicly available for use in education, research, and virtual exploration.

SourceKyushu University·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 25, 2022

In new study in The Crop Journal, scientists develop cutting edge vascular system image analysis pipeline for crops

A team of researchers developed a deep learning pipeline to analyze vascular system images of plants with high accuracy. The pipeline can detect vascular bundles, identify specific zones, and perform statistical analysis of traits in different stem internodes. This study has the potential to improve crop resilience and food security.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2022

Arisaema urashima’s ‘fishing rod’ reels in its primary pollinator

Research reveals Arisaema urashima's thread selectively reels in fungus gnats, a key pollinator, by trapping them inside the spathe. The plant's 'fishing rod' appendage also reduces fruiting rate if removed, emphasizing its crucial role in attracting primary pollinators.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Olive trees were first domesticated 7,000 years ago

Researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Hebrew University discovered charcoal remnants from olive trees at the Chalcolithic site of Tel Zaf, indicating intentional cultivation around 7,000 years ago. This marks the earliest evidence of domestication of a fruit tree worldwide.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 15, 2022

New study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis reveals influence of host plant on medicinal qualities of mistletoe

A study published in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis found that the quality of mistletoe, a traditional Chinese medicine, is affected by its host plant. The researchers used metabolomics to investigate the influence of host plants and environmental factors on mistletoe's medicinal qualities. The results show that both host plants an...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Metal mayhem: New research finds toxic metals absorbed by Great Salt Lake plants and insects

Great Salt Lake wetland plants can accumulate hazardous metal pollution, which can be passed up the food chain to herbivorous insects. This study found high concentrations of lead, mercury, and other metals in plant tissues, threatening terrestrial ecosystems.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalEcotoxicology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2022

Satellite monitoring of biodiversity moves within reach

Researchers from the University of Zurich and University of Montréal developed a method to assess plant biodiversity across ecosystems using satellite imaging spectrometry. The study found that spectral diversity calculations can capture differences in plant community composition across all ecosystems studied, allowing for targeted fie...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Discovery uncovers a new leaf for redwoods

Researchers discovered that redwood trees have two functionally distinct leaves: one type specializes in converting sunlight into sugar through photosynthesis, while the other absorbs water. This adaptation allows the world's tallest trees to survive in a range of conditions, from wet forests to dry environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 16, 2022

Fix, not fight: Scientists help plants regenerate after injury

A study by New York University researchers found that plants make a trade-off between regeneration and defense responses after injury. The researchers used drugs typically used in neurobiology research to study the plant's responses to injury and found that targeting glutamate receptors can boost regeneration.

SourceNew York University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 10, 2022

Unlocking the mechanical secrets of giant Amazonian waterlilies

The study found that the distinctive pattern on the underside of the leaves is crucial for their size and strength. The unique vascular structure allows the plants to occupy a large surface area while maintaining low biomass.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2022

“We play ping pong with the tree”

Researchers at TUM explore the use of living trees in architecture, using photogrammetry and skeleton extraction to design structures that adapt to tree growth. They demonstrate a pavilion with a roof structure optimized to follow the shape of supporting branches.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New understanding of plant nutrient response could improve fertilizer management strategies

A new study reveals that balancing iron and phosphorus levels is crucial to prevent chlorosis, a condition associated with yellowing leaves. The research team found that removing phosphorus can help restore photosynthesis, highlighting the need for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Scientists solve the grass leaf conundrum

Researchers used computational modeling and developmental genetic techniques to study grass leaf formation, finding that current theories are likely incorrect and a 19th-century proposal is closer to the truth. The discovery sheds light on how simple growth rules can generate diverse leaf shapes.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 9, 2021

Danforth Center scientists develop an unprecedented three-dimensional X-ray microscope methodology to image plants at cellular resolution

Plant scientists can now image above and below-ground structures with unprecedented clarity, revealing new insights into biological processes. The development of three-dimensional X-ray microscopy enables the observation of microscopic molecular and cellular processes driving plant phenotypes.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateDec 7, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Scientists use the glowing properties of plant cells to capture stunning images

Researchers developed a cost-effective protocol for plant sample preparation and visualization, eliminating the need for stains and dyes. The new method harnesses the natural autofluorescence of tissues in plants, allowing for rapid visualization of plant anatomy across diverse taxa.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Pusan National University researchers shed light on the early development of rice seeds

A team of scientists led by Assistant Professor Lae-Hyeon Cho identified a single mutation in the gene that codes for cytidine triphosphate synthase (CTPS), an enzyme crucial for early endosperm development. The study showed that overexpressing CTPS in genetically modified rice plants results in a larger endosperm, opening up opportuni...

SourcePusan National University·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

The tree of cortical cell types describes the diversity of neurons in the brain

Researchers have provided a detailed characterization of brain cortical cell diversity using Patch-seq technique. The study suggests that neurons within broad genetic families exhibit extensive anatomical and physiological diversity, highlighting the complexity of the brain's neural network.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Progress on biomimetic mechanics of underwater solid-liquid-gas interface

Researchers found a stable liquid-gas interface on the Salvinia leaf, enabling drag reduction and anti-corrosion properties. Biomimetic artificial surfaces replicated this effect using 3D printing technology.

SourcePeking University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2020

Venom shape untangles scorpion family tree

Scientists use venom shapes to identify distinct branches in the scorpion family tree, supporting a new evolutionary relationship. The study reveals that venom shape carries information about its function and has remained relatively unchanged over 300 million years.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPeerJ·DateNov 14, 2018

Untangling the complex taxonomic history of a Neotropical liana genus

Scientists used integrative taxonomy to recognize five well-defined species in the genus, including a newly described species from Colombia and Venezuela. The study highlights the importance of accurate species recognition for conservation priorities, with lianas contributing significantly to tropical forest diversity.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateJan 29, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

First few millimeters of the leaf margin identify palm species in a new key to Syagrus

Scientists develop a new method for identifying palm species in the Neotropical genus Syagrus by analyzing the first few millimeters of the leaflet margin. This technique is useful when other morphological characteristics are unclear, providing a reliable alternative for species identification.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateJun 15, 2017

Tasmania home to first alpine sword-sedge

A team of researchers from Australia has discovered a high-altitude species of sedge in Tasmania, Lepidosperma monticola, which is unique to alpine vegetation and the smallest known species of the genus. The new species grows on mountains at elevations above 700m and can be distinguished by its fruit morphology.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateNov 15, 2013

Geneticist receives Excellence in Science Award from coalition of biomedical researchers

Susan R. Wessler, a distinguished professor of genetics at the University of California, Riverside, has been awarded the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) Excellence in Science Award. She is internationally recognized for her work on plant genome structure and stability.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 30, 2011

Climbing to new heights in the forest canopy

Climbing plants have evolved remarkable adaptations to ascend walls and trellises, with various modes of attachment, including twining, leaf-climbing, tendril-bearers, root-climbers, and hook-climbers. These structures enable flexibility and withstand mechanical stresses, allowing vines to efficiently transport water and nutrients.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 6, 2009
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Distant attraction

A study found that insect feeding by a spruce gall adelgid caused large galls to form, inversely correlated with distance from buds. Chemical stimuli were determined to be the cause of gall formation.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateJan 29, 2003