Acaena exigua NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S.<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/"> Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video. Acaena exigua is an extinct species of flowering plant in the rose family known by the common name liliwai. It was endemic to Hawaii, where it was known from Kauaʻi and west Maui. It had not been seen or collected since 1957 and was feared extinct until 1997, when one plant was discovered in a remote montane bog on <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=maui&amp;cvid=11f593b142284a109c4b71b63cd85874&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Maui</a>. The plant died in 2000, and the species is now considered extinct.Acaena exigua A. Gray var. subtusstrigulosa Bitter: Classification. Click on a scientific name below to expand it in the PLANTS Classification Report. Rank Scientific Name and Common Name; Kingdom: Plantae – Plants Subkingdom: Tracheobionta

Acaena exigua

Acaena exigua NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation...

Erysimum teretifolium NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Erysimum teretifolium ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.This species is found only within a strip of land measuring 9 miles long by 5 miles wide. The plant is mainly threatened by coastal and inland development in the area and mining of the sand it lives in. About 75% of the remaining plants grow on land belonging to a <a title="Sand mining" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sand_mining">sand mining company</a>. <a class="mw-redirect" title="Fire suppression" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_suppression">Fire suppression</a> has also altered the habitat to the detriment of the plant; leaf and needle litter builds up while the plant requires stretches of open sand. <a class="mw-redirect" title="Urban development" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_development">Urban development</a> is another threat, destroying habitat and leading to <a title="Habitat fragmentation" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitat_fragmentation">habitat fragmentation</a>

Erysimum teretifolium

Erysimum teretifolium NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Photo by Phil Delphey

Erythronium propullans NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Erythronium propullans ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Erythronium propullans, the Minnesota dwarf trout lily, Minnesota adder's tongue or Minnesota fawnlily, is a rare plant <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to the <a title="Cannon River (Minnesota)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannon_River_(Minnesota)">Cannon River</a> and North Fork <a title="Zumbro River" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zumbro_River">Zumbro River</a> watersheds in <a title="Rice County, Minnesota" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rice_County,_Minnesota">Rice County</a>, <a class="mw-redirect" title="Goodhue County" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodhue_County">Goodhue County</a> and the extreme northern edge of <a title="Steele County, Minnesota" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steele_County,_Minnesota">Steele County</a>, <a title="Minnesota" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minnesota">Minnesota</a>, in the United States. The plants are believed to be a mutation or sport of the white trout lily (<a title="Erythronium albidum" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythronium_albidum">Erythronium albidum</a>) and evolved following the most recent <a title="Ice age" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_age">ice age</a>.

The plants' flower in the spring at the same time as <a title="Hepatica" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hepatica">Hepaticas</a>, <a class="mw-redirect" title="Dutchman's breeches" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutchman%27s_breeches">Dutchman's breeches</a>, <a class="mw-redirect" title="Bloodroot" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodroot">bloodroot</a>, and other spring <a title="Wildflower" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wildflower">wildflowers</a>. <a title="Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nerstrand-Big_Woods_State_Park">Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park</a>, <a title="River Bend Nature Center" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_Bend_Nature_Center">River Bend Nature Center</a>, and several tracts owned by <a title="The Nature Conservancy" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Nature_Conservancy">The Nature Conservancy</a> protect portions of its habitat.

Erythronium propullans

Erythronium propullans NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Eugenia bryanii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada.</a> NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports --  ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world. Therefore this plant with stay on the endangered list for now and possibly forever.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.\är en myrtenväxtart som beskrevs av <a class="new" title="Ryozo Kanehira [inte skriven än]" href="https://sv.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ryozo_Kanehira&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1">Ryozo Kanehira</a>. Eugenia bryanii ingår i <a title="Släkte" href="https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sl%C3%A4kte">släktet</a> och <a title="Familj (biologi)" href="https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Familj_(biologi)">familjen</a> <a title="Myrtenväxter" href="https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myrtenv%C3%A4xter">myrtenväxter</a>. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of LifeFamily: Myrtaceae Form: Short, low laying shrub reaching 1m Stem: Stems are cylindrical and taper off Leaves: Leaves are elliptical with rolled margins. Appear to be fleshy. Flowers: Flowers are small, white, and 4 petaled. Fruit: 2 x 2cm in size, bright red. Propagation: Seed Habitat: Limestone cliff edges.

Eugenia bryanii

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Eugenia haematocarpa NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-set-a-bedtime-alarm-that-helps-them-survive-the-night/">plants</a> and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Eugenia haematocarpa ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=fungi&amp;cvid=7ff9722c6d40412e8fc200c802a1b87b&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">fungi</a>, and microbes of North America and the world.Eugenia haematocarpa is a rare species of plant in the family Myrtaceae. It is endemic to Puerto Rico. It is classified as an endangered species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and there has been a plan for its recovery in place for some years. Its common names include uvillo and Luquillo Mountain stopper.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Luquillo Mountain stopper Subordinate Taxa. This plant has no children Legal Status. Threatened and Endangered Information: This plant is listed by the U.S. federal government or a state. Common names are from state and federal lists.

Eugenia haematocarpa

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Eugenia koolauensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/fungi-characteristics-and-function/">fungi</a>, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Eugenia koolauensis, commonly known as Koʻolau eugenia or nioi, is a species of flowering plant in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It is endemic to Hawaii, where it could previously be found on the islands of Molokaʻi and Oʻahu; today populations only exist on the latter. This is a federally listed endangered species of the United States.

Eugenia koolauensis is one of only two species of Eugenia native to Hawaii. The other is E. reinwardtiana, which occurs naturally in Hawaii as well as through much of the tropical Pacific Ocean. Eugenia reinwardtiana is a rare plant in Hawaii, except for parts ofthe northern Waianae Mountains where it can be fairly common.

Eugenia koolauensis

Eugenia koolauensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Eugenia woodburyana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-set-a-bedtime-alarm-that-helps-them-survive-the-night/">plants</a> and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=fish&amp;cvid=8336f12baaec4097aaafbabc6a0f9150&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Eugenia woodburyana is a species of plant in the family Myrtaceae. It is endemic to Puerto Rico. It is a federally listed endangered species of the United States. It is threatened by habitat loss.Eugenia woodburyana is found in the deciduous and semi-evergreen seasonal forests of the subtropical dry forest life zone of southwestern Puerto Rico at elevations of less than 100 meters. Extensive areas of this life zone overlie limestone, including the area where this species is found. This plant is listed by the U.S. federal government or a state. Common names are from state and federal lists. Click on a place name to get a complete protected plant list for that location.

Eugenia woodburyana

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Euphorbia celastroides var. kaenana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/"> Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia celastroides var. kaenana ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia celastroides grows as a medium-sized <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrub</a> or small tree reaching 2 metres (6.6 ft) in height. To grow properly, this species requires temperatures of 15 °C (59 °F) and light shade.This plant develops in a fashion similar to a <a title="Shrub" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrub">shrub</a>. In the summer, it assumes a red-violet colouring. It does not lose its leaves in the winter, due to the warm climate of its range. Female flowers have a three-part <a class="mw-redirect" title="Pistil" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pistil">pistil</a> over a three-part <a class="mw-redirect" title="Ovary (plants)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ovary_(plants)">ovary</a>, usually producing three (or sometimes more) seeds. This species is tolerant of heat and drought. They are susceptible to <a class="mw-redirect" title="Fungal diseases" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fungal_diseases">fungal diseases</a>. Its <a class="mw-redirect" title="Cyathia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyathia">cyathia</a> may be located in short or open-branched <a title="Inflorescence" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflorescence#Determinate_or_cymose">cymes</a>, or remain ungrouped in leaf <a class="mw-redirect" title="Axil" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axil">axils</a>. The leaves are distichous (grow in two vertical rows) and may have a <a title="Glaucous" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glaucous">glaucous</a> coating. This plant produces a green or brown, rounded fruit 2 to 4 mm long, containing grey-brown seeds 0.5 to 2.5 mm long

Euphorbia celastroides var. kaenana

Euphorbia celastroides var. kaenana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Euphorbia deppeana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia deppeana ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia deppeana is a rare species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaceae known by the common names Deppe's broomspurge and Oahu sandmat. It is endemic to Oʻahu, Hawaii, where it is known from only one population in moist shrublands on Nuʻuanu Pali. Like other native Hawaiian euphorbs it is called ʻakoko locally.Very rare subshrub on windward cliffs near Oahu's Nu'uanu Pali Lookout. Thought to be extinct until its rediscovery in 1986. Leaves lack hairs, with rounded apex &amp; finely serrate margins. Flowers 1.5 - 3mm wide, nearly sessile in leaf axil. Similar to Euphorbia multiformis var. microphylla. Formerly known as Chamaesyce deppeana.

Euphorbia deppeana

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Euphorbia eleanoriae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia eleanoriae ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia eleanoriae is a rare species of flowering plant in the euphorb family known by the common name Nā Pali sandmat. It is endemic to Kauaʻi, Hawaii. Like other native Hawaiian euphorbs it is called ʻakoko locally. This plant was only discovered in 1992 and described to science in 1996 as Chamaesyce eleanoriae. At that time there were fewer than 500 plants known, all occurring in small populations scattered across the sheer cliffs along the Nā Pali Coast of Kauaʻi. By 2001 the total population had already dropped; only three populations were found, for a total of fewer than 50 plants. The plant was federally listed as an endangered species of the United States in 2010.

Euphorbia eleanoriae

Euphorbia eleanoriae NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Euphorbia haeleeleana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia haeleeleana ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Euphorbia haeleeleana, the Kauaʻi spurge, is a species of <a title="Flowering plant" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flowering_plant">flowering plant</a> in the <a title="Croton (plant)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Croton_(plant)">croton</a> family, <a title="Euphorbiaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphorbiaceae">Euphorbiaceae</a>, that is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to the islands of <a title="Kauai" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kauai">Kauaʻi</a> and <a title="Oahu" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oahu">Oaʻhu</a> in <a title="Hawaii" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaii">Hawaii</a>. Like other Hawaiian spurges it is known as `akoko.

It inhabits <a title="Hawaiian tropical dry forests" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaiian_tropical_dry_forests">dry</a>, <a title="Hawaiian tropical rainforests" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaiian_tropical_rainforests#Coastal_mesic_forests">coastal mesic</a>, and mixed mesic forests from 205–670 m (673–2,198 ft). Associated plants include ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha), koa (Acacia koa), lama (Diospyros sandwicensis), kukui (Aleurites moluccanus), ʻaʻaliʻi (Dodonaea viscosa), <a title="Wiliwili" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wiliwili">wiliwili</a> (Erythrina sandwicensis), hala pepe (Pleomele spp.), ʻohe kukuluāeʻo (Reynoldsia sandwicensis), and āulu (Sapindus oahuensis). Kauaʻi Spurge is a small <a title="Tree" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tree">tree</a>, reaching a height of 3–14 metres (9.8–45.9 ft).

It is threatened by habitat loss and disturbance. Feral pigs and goats damage the habitat and <a title="Introduced species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Introduced_species">non-native plant species</a> take hold there and <a title="Competition (biology)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Competition_(biology)">compete</a> for resources

Euphorbia haeleeleana

Euphorbia haeleeleana NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Euphorbia halemanui NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia halemanui ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia halemanui is a rare species of flowering plant in the euphorb family known by the common name Kauai sandmat. It is endemic to Kauaʻi, Hawaii, where there are no more than 400 plants remaining. There are four populations at last count. It is a federally listed endangered species.Euphorbia halemanui is a rare species of flowering plant in the euphorb family known by the common name Kauai sandmat. It is endemic to Kauaʻi, Hawaii, where there are no more than 400 plants remaining. There are four populations at last count. It is a federally listed endangered species.

Euphorbia halemanui

Euphorbia halemanui NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Euphorbia herbstii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/"> Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=plants&amp;cvid=99a815be3ac142c48dd010ce93051524&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">plants</a> and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports --  ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia herbstii is a rare species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaceae known by the common name Herbst's sandmat. It is endemic to Oʻahu, Hawaii, where it is rapidly disappearing. Like other Hawaiian euphorbs, this plant is known locally as ʻakoko. It is a federally listed endangered species of the United States.Euphorbia species Also its Name Synonyms Chamaesyce forbesii var. grandifolia Hillebr. Chamaesyce herbstii W.L.Wagner Homonyms  (Wagner) Oudejans Common names Herbst's sandmat in English ‘akoko in language. Therefore this plant will remain on the endangered list.

Euphorbia herbstii

Euphorbia herbstii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/faking-death-is-a-good-way-for-animals-to-stay-alive/">animals</a> and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia kuwaleana is a rare species of flowering plant in the euphorb family known by the common name kokomalei. It is endemic to Oahu, Hawaii, where it is known only from a four-kilometer stretch of the Waianae Range. Like other Hawaiian euphorbs, this plant is known locally as `akoko. It is a federally listed endangered species of the United States.Euphorbia kuwaleana : Source: Malpighiales of North America Update, database (version 2011) Acquired: 2011 : Notes: Updated for ITIS by the Flora of North America Expertise Network, in connection with an update for USDA PLANTS (2007-2010) Reference for: Euphorbia kuwaleana : Source: NODC Taxonomic Code, database (version 8.0) Acquired: 1996 Kew Science Plants of the World online. The Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Published on the internet. Accessed: 2020 Jul 14. Reference page. Tropicos.org 2020. Euphorbia kuwaleana. Missouri Botanical Garden.

Euphorbia kuwaleana

NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source...

Euphorbia remyi var. kauaiensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=canada&amp;cvid=30f15bb405a840f58de0f71448f2640d&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changing-ocean-soundscapes-impact-animals-worldwide/">animals</a> too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia remyi var. kauaiensis ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia remyi is a rare species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is known by the common name Remy's sandmat locally as ʻakoko. It is endemic to the island of Kauaʻi in Hawaii, where it grows in mixed mesic forests, wet forests and bogs from 150 to 900 m.Biosecurity early detection and rapid response Continue and expand inspection and clearance of domestic and interisland pathways. Ongoing Current: Hawaii Department of Agriculture, U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (formerly Animal Damage Control) Work type not yet selected

Euphorbia remyi var. kauaiensis

Euphorbia remyi var. kauaiensis NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Euphorbia remyi var. remyi NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/changing-ocean-soundscapes-impact-animals-worldwide/">animals</a> and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too.

NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.Euphorbia remyi is a rare species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is known by the common name Remy's sandmat locally as ʻakoko. It is endemic to the island of Kauaʻi in Hawaii, where it grows in mixed mesic forests, wet forests and bogs from 150 to 900 m.Show All Show Tabs Remy's sandmat General Information; Symbol: CHRER Group: Dicot Family: Euphorbiaceae Duration: Perennial: Growth Habit: Shrub Vine:

ITIS Reports -- ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of <a href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=north+america&amp;cvid=42bf721fd5b0405d9c4fdf0744f43875&amp;FORM=ANAB01&amp;PC=HCTS">North America</a> and the world.The USFWS Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office works closely with our partners in Hawaii, American Samoa, the Marianas, and Remote Pacific Islands.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Euphorbia remyi var. remyi

Euphorbia remyi var. remyi NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Euphorbia rockii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia rockii ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.

Euphorbia rockii (<a title="Synonym (taxonomy)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synonym_(taxonomy)">syn.</a> Chamaesyce rockii)  is a rare species of flowering plant in the <a title="Euphorbiaceae" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphorbiaceae">euphorb family</a> known by the common names Koolau Range sandmat and Rock's broomspurge. It is <a title="Endemism" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endemism">endemic</a> to <a title="Oahu" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oahu">Oʻahu</a>, <a title="Hawaii" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaii">Hawaii</a>, where it is known only from the Koʻolau Mountains. There are 200 to 300 plants remaining.  Like other Hawaiian euphorbs, this plant is known locally as ʻakoko.

The remaining plants exist in fewer than 10 subpopulations on the peaks of the Koʻolau Mountains, where they often grow in wet forests and shrublands. The plant is threatened by the destruction and degradation of its habitat. The main agents of damage to the habitat are <a title="Feral pig" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feral_pig">feral pigs</a> and non-native plant species such as <a class="mw-redirect" title="Psidium littorale" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psidium_littorale">strawberry guava</a> (Psidium littorale) and <a title="Clidemia hirta" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clidemia_hirta">Koster's curse</a> (Clidemia hirta

Euphorbia rockii

Euphorbia rockii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Euphorbia skottsbergii var. skottsbergii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-fall-rhapsody-in-ottawa/">Canada</a>. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia skottsbergii var. skottsbergii ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.The <a class="mw-redirect" title="Biological classification" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biological_classification">taxonomy</a> of this plant is still being studied; the name and number of varieties have changed over the years and are still in flux. In 1982 the rare variety kalaeloana was added to the <a class="mw-redirect" title="Endangered Species Act" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endangered_Species_Act">endangered species list</a> of the United States. This plant was and still is known only from Oʻahu's ʻEwa Plains between <a class="mw-redirect" title="Kalaeloa, Hawai'i" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalaeloa,_Hawai%27i">Kalaeloa</a> (Barber's Point) and <a title="Pearl Harbor" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl_Harbor">Pearl Harbor</a>. It had been reduced in population by a number of factors, including <a title="United States Navy" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Navy">Navy</a> activity, <a title="Pollution" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollution">pollution</a>, destruction by <a title="Bulldozer" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulldozer">bulldozer</a> on private property, <a title="Quarry" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quarry">quarrying</a>, <a title="Agriculture" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture">agriculture</a>, <a title="Fire" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire">fire</a>, development and construction of housing, roads, an <a title="Oil refinery" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_refinery">oil refinery</a>, and resort property, and expansion of the <a title="Harbor" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harbor">harbor</a>.The plant's human-caused decline probably started with the arrival of the <a title="Polynesians" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polynesians">Polynesians</a>. Other threats include <a title="Introduced species" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Introduced_species">non-native plant species</a>, especially <a title="Cassytha filiformis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cassytha_filiformis">kaunaoa pehu</a> (Cassytha filiformis), <a title="Prosopis pallida" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prosopis_pallida">kiawe</a> (Prosopis pallida), <a title="Asystasia gangetica" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asystasia_gangetica">Chinese violet</a> (Asystasia gangetica), and <a title="Cenchrus ciliaris" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cenchrus_ciliaris">buffel grass</a> (Cenchrus ciliaris).Potentially damaging <a title="Insect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insect">insects</a> that visit the plant include <a class="new" title="Aechaea janata (page does not exist)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Aechaea_janata&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1">croton moth</a> (Aechaea janata) and <a title="Aleurodicus dispersus" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleurodicus_dispersus">spiraling whitefly</a> (Aleurodicus dispersus).

Euphorbia skottsbergii var. skottsbergii

Euphorbia skottsbergii var. skottsbergii NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe...

Euphorbia telephioides NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is a source for authoritative conservation information on more than 50,000 plants, animals and ecological communtities of the U.S and Canada. NatureServe Explorer provides in-depth information on rare and endangered species, but includes common plants and animals too. NatureServe Explorer is a product of NatureServe in collaboration with the Natural Heritage Network.

ITIS Reports -- Euphorbia telephioides ITIS (the Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is a source for authoritative taxonomic information on plants, animals, fungi, and microbes of North America and the world.

FWS Digital Media Library -- The U.S. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-surface-slicks-create-superhighway-for-fish/">Fish</a> and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library is a searchable collection of selected images, historical artifacts, audio clips, publications, and video.Euphorbia telephioides is a rare species of euphorb known by the common name Telephus spurge. It is endemic to Florida in the United States, where it is known only from three counties in the Panhandle. It is a federally listed threatened species of the United States.

Euphorbia telephioides Chapman (telephus spurge), which is restricted to the Florida panhandle, is a south-eastern endemic with endangered world status in the 1997 IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants (Walter and Gillett 1998). It was also designated as threatened in the Federal Register, May 8, 1992 (designation effective June 8, 1992;

Euphorbia telephioides

Euphorbia telephioides NatureServe Explorer Species Reports -- NatureServe Explorer is...

Plant leaves may seem unassuming, but beneath their glossy surfaces lies a surprising discovery: they are coated with a diverse array of RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules. 



This finding has the potential to reshape our understanding of plant biology and the interactions between plants and the environment.



The study was led by Lucía Borniego and Meenu Singla-Rastogi, postdoctoral fellows at Indiana University Bloomington, alongside Roger Innes, a professor of biology. 



The research offers a fresh perspective on the complex relationships between plants and microbes.



“What excites us most about this discovery is that it indicates plants may control their microbiomes, in part, by regulating gene expression in microbes using cross-kingdom RNA interference, also known as RNAi,” said Innes. 



But what does this mean, and why is it significant?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-discovery-plant-rnas-on-leaf-surfaces">Revolutionary discovery: Plant RNAs on leaf surfaces</h2>



RNA, a fragile molecule, typically degrades quickly outside a cell unless protected. However, this study reveals that plants secrete viable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-recovered-from-an-extinct-species-tasmanian-tiger-for-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA</a> onto their leaf surfaces, where it remains surprisingly stable. 



This discovery suggests that plant-derived RNA could directly influence microbial communities on leaf surfaces by engaging in cross-kingdom RNAi - a process whereby RNA from one organism affects gene expression in another.



Cross-kingdom RNAi is not new in biology. Scientists have known that organisms can exchange RNA to regulate genes. What’s remarkable here is the idea that plants may use this mechanism to interact with microbes that are colonizing their surfaces.



“Only recently has it been shown that RNAs produced by one organism can be taken up by another organism and then base pair with RNAs in the recipient organism,” Innes explained. RNA interference appears to occur in just about all living organisms. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-rna-and-polysaccharides-in-plants">Role of RNA and polysaccharides in plants</h2>



The research team found abundant RNAs on the leaf surfaces of&nbsp;Arabidopsis thaliana, a model plant widely used in scientific studies. 



These RNAs were stable, likely because they formed condensates with polysaccharides, such as pectin. 



As a component of the plant cell wall, pectin appears to play a protective role, ensuring that RNA molecules can persist outside plant cells.



The implications are profound. Stable RNA on leaf surfaces means that microbes colonizing these areas are exposed to plant RNA. This exposure could influence microbial gene expression, potentially determining which microbial species can thrive on leaf surfaces.



This ability to “curate” microbial communities could impact plant health, disease resistance, and overall growth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-this-matter-the-bigger-picture">Why does this matter? The bigger picture</h2>



The implications of this research extend far beyond plants. 



“The manipulation of microbial communities by environmental RNA is likely taking place in our own guts as well, with RNA being secreted by our intestinal epithelial cells,” noted Innes.



This means that understanding plant-microbe interactions could shed light on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-cells-communicate-with-each-other-through-rna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar processes in humans</a> and other animals.



The connection doesn’t end there. Think about the salad you had for lunch. The RNA on the surface of those leafy greens could interact with your gut microbiome, influencing its composition and, potentially, your health. 



While this hypothesis requires further research, it opens up fascinating possibilities about how our diets could impact our microbial ecosystems directly .



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-applications-in-agriculture-and-medicine">Potential applications in agriculture and medicine</h2>



This discovery isn’t just a scientific curiosity; it could have real-world applications. If plants can use RNA to influence microbial communities, farmers might one day harness this ability to enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-plant-microbiomes-the-future-of-crop-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop health</a>. 



For example, plants could be genetically engineered to secrete specific RNAs that discourage harmful microbes or promote beneficial ones.



In medicine, understanding how RNA influences microbial ecosystems could lead to new therapies. Imagine using RNA-based treatments to modulate the gut microbiome in patients with digestive disorders or metabolic diseases. 



While these applications are speculative, the groundwork laid by this study provides a roadmap for possible future exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-further-research-on-plant-rna">Call for further research on plant RNA</h2>



While this study provides valuable insights, it also raises new questions. 



How do specific RNAs influence microbial gene expression? Are there particular microbes that are more susceptible to RNA interference? And what environmental factors affect RNA stability on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-make-life-and-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant surfaces</a>?



Additionally, the potential interaction between plant RNAs and the human microbiome deserves closer examination. Could consuming RNA-coated plants have measurable effects on human health? 



Future research will need to address these questions to unlock the full potential of these findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-nature-s-complexity">A window into nature’s complexity</h2>



This discovery reminds us of nature’s intricate complexity. From the stability of RNA on plant surfaces to its potential to shape microbial communities, the study offers a glimpse into the complexity of hidden genetic mechanisms.



The research also highlights the interconnectedness of life on Earth - how plants, microbes, and even humans are linked by molecular interactions that transcend species boundaries.



“It is quite possible that RNA on leaf surfaces, like salad, could influence our own gut microbiomes,” said Innes.



This idea challenges us to rethink our relationship with plants, not just as sources of food or oxygen, but as active participants in a dynamic, interconnected biosphere.



The research was a collaborative effort. In addition to the <a href="https://bloomington.iu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indiana University</a> team, contributors included Patricia Baldrich and Blake C. Meyers from the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Davis</a>, and Madison McGregor from the <a href="https://www.danforthcenter.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Danforth Plant Science Center</a>.



The interdisciplinary nature of this research makes it even more noteworthy. By combining biology, chemistry, and molecular genetics, the team uncovered a layer of plant-microbe interaction that had remained hidden until now.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409090121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Plants may control their own microbiomes

Plant leaves may seem unassuming, but beneath their glossy surfaces...

Ever wondered if the flavor of your coffee could taste even better? A simple dash of water might hold the secret to a richer, smoother cup. 



New research reveals that adding moisture to coffee beans before grinding can significantly improve brewing flavor while preventing the mess and waste often caused by static electricity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-flavor-and-electrons">Coffee flavor and electrons</h2>



Grinding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-coffee-reduces-the-risk-of-certain-cancers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> beans produces friction as the particles collide, rub together, and break apart. This process causes the ground coffee to develop a charge, which then produces static electricity.



The charged coffee particles stick together, forming clumps that can clog grinders. These clumps make it difficult to achieve a consistent grind, leading to uneven brewing and less flavorful coffee.



Scientists have investigated the impact of this static buildup on the brewing process. Their research revealed a simple yet effective solution: adding water to the beans before grinding. 



This moisture reduces static electricity, prevents clumping, and ensures smoother grinding, which ultimately improves the quality and flavor of the brewed coffee.



"Moisture, whether it's residual moisture inside the roasted coffee or external moisture added during grinding, is what dictates the amount of charge that is formed during grinding," explained Christopher Hendon, a materials chemist at the <a href="https://www.uoregon.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oregon</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-static-electricity-the-basics">Understanding static electricity -- the basics</h2>



Static electricity is what happens when there's an imbalance of tiny electric charges on the surface of an object. 



Everything around us is made up of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/x-ray-single-atom-captured-by-scientists-for-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny particles called atoms</a>, and inside these atoms, there are even smaller particles called electrons. Electrons carry a negative charge, and they can move from one object to another.



For example, when you rub a balloon on your hair, some electrons from your hair move to the balloon, making the balloon negatively charged and your hair positively charged. This is why the balloon can stick to your hair or make your hair stand up - opposite charges attract!



We experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-of-static-electricity-has-finally-been-solved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">static electricity</a> a lot in everyday life. You might have felt it when you touch a metal doorknob and get a little shock, or when your clothes stick together after they come out of the dryer.



These shocks happen when the extra charges suddenly move from one thing to another, often through your body, which feels like a quick zap. 



Static electricity is more common in dry air because moisture in the air helps stop the buildup of charges. That’s why it tends to happen more in the winter when the air is dry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-of-better-coffee-brewing">Science of better coffee brewing</h2>



Hendon and Joshua Méndez Harper, a former volcanologist from the University of Oregon, investigated how moisture affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-coffee-is-missing-these-five-brain-boosting-spices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> grinding. 



The researchers examined coffee beans from various origins, with different roasting levels and moisture contents. 



They measured key factors such as the static electricity generated during grinding, the size of the resulting particles, and the flavor profiles of the brewed coffee.



The study revealed that darker, drier coffee roasts are more susceptible to static electricity than lighter, moister beans. 



The increased brittleness of darker roasts leads to greater friction during grinding, which causes clumping and uneven grounds.



By adding a small amount of water to the beans before grinding, the researchers showed that static electricity could be reduced. 



This simple adjustment produced a smoother grind and improved consistency, enhancing the quality of the coffee.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stronger-espresso-with-water">Stronger espresso with water</h2>



Harper and his team compared espresso brewed with beans ground with and without added moisture. 



They discovered that a light spritz of water not only reduced clumping but also improved the extraction process. The moist grounds allowed water to flow more evenly, and pulled more flavor from the coffee.



Hendon recommends adding about 20 microliters of water per gram of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robusta-coffee-could-save-our-morning-brew-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a>, which equals roughly half a milliliter for a single shot of espresso. 



This minor adjustment not only enhances the uniformity of the grind but also ensures a stronger and tastier cup of coffee, making it a simple yet effective technique for coffee enthusiasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-geophysics">Lessons from geophysics</h2>



The research also connects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-aging-drinking-coffee-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> science with earth science. 



"There's a lot more to know about how coffee breaks, how it flows as particles, and how it interacts with water," said Harper. 



By studying coffee, scientists hope to gain insights into broader geophysical phenomena like landslides, volcanic eruptions, and soil water flow.



These parallels highlight how everyday activities like brewing coffee can inspire scientific breakthroughs in seemingly unrelated fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spritz-your-beans-before-grinding">Spritz your beans before grinding </h2>



For coffee enthusiasts, the study provides an easy and practical tip: spritz your beans before grinding. By preventing clumping, the grinding process becomes smoother and more consistent, which leads to evenly sized grounds.



This consistency enhances the brewing process, allowing water to flow more uniformly through the coffee. 



The result is a richer and more flavorful espresso, making this method an easy way to elevate your coffee experience without requiring additional tools or complex techniques.



"A few simple squirts of water have solved the problems of clumping, channeling, and poor extractions while aiding in the pursuit of attaining the tastiest espresso," Hendon states.



So, the next time you prepare your morning brew, try adding a little water to your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-coffee-good-for-you-it-may-depend-on-your-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beans</a>. It’s a simple step with a big payoff - and who knows, your kitchen experiment might just inspire the next scientific breakthrough.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/matter/fulltext/S2590-2385(23)00568-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matter</a>.



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Coffee flavor can be greatly improved with this simple trick

Ever wondered if the flavor of your coffee could taste...

Volcanoes hold incredible power, but similar to plants and their root systems, most volcanic activity that occurs before an eruption happens beneath the surface.



Traditional monitoring tools focus on measuring seismic activity and collecting gas samples, yet these methods can miss subtle warning signs hidden in rugged landscapes. 



Researchers have been searching for additional ways to detect signs of unrest before eruptions happen, especially for volcanoes that are far from inhabited areas. They are now turning to plant life for clues and signs that a volcano is close to erupting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dioxide-plants-and-volcanoes">Carbon dioxide, plants, and volcanoes</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Volcanic gases, like carbon dioxide</a>, are often released as magma pushes upward. Detecting them can be tricky because the same gases also appear in everyday life.



Certain remote volcanoes lack permanent sensors or easy access, which leads scientists to test creative approaches that might reveal small changes long before other instruments notice them.



One project was led by Robert Bogue from <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> in Montreal, Canada, who worked with colleagues to measure patterns in vegetation health near hydrothermal areas in the Yellowstone Caldera. 



The results reveal how plants respond to changes in the ground beneath them, which may point to rising magma and a heightened risk of volcanic activity or the imminent eruption of a volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-and-volcanoes-as-allies">Plants and volcanoes as allies</h2>



Plants adjust how they grow when their surroundings shift. This adjustment includes changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> and patterns in leaf structure.



Variations in carbon dioxide, sulfur, and soil temperature can affect how trees flourish, and these factors often emerge in volcanic settings. 



Scientists reason that such signals might appear in plant tissues months or years before major events occur.



In the field, it can be hard to see small changes in vegetation by eye alone. Forests are vast, and weather can alter growth in ways unrelated to volcanoes. 



That is why satellite imaging has become popular. It can scan large areas and detect subtle hints of stress or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unusual greening</a> that might not stand out on the ground.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beneath-the-canopy">Looking beneath the canopy</h2>



One helpful technique is the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (<a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/MeasuringVegetation/measuring_vegetation_2.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NDVI</a>). This calculation captures how vigorously plants are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/details-photosynthesis-water-viewed-atomic-level-cryo-microscope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesizing</a> by measuring chlorophyll levels.



Scores range from negative numbers up to 1, with higher numbers pointing to healthy leaves. By comparing these values in different spots over time, researchers can see if there are trends that may connect to shifts in the subsurface environment.



Studies in volcanic regions suggest that small bursts of carbon dioxide and heated fluids can initially fertilize local plants. But higher concentrations of harmful gases or very hot soil can stress and even kill them. 



Tracking these ups and downs over multiple years can reveal a story of underground changes that unfold gradually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tern-lake-as-a-proving-ground">Tern Lake as a proving ground</h2>



In Wyoming, the Tern Lake thermal area sits in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-music-will-yellowstones-seismic-activity-produce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone Caldera</a>. From 1984 to 2022, archived Landsat images showed that tree health in this hydrothermal zone improved for about 16 years. 



Scientists believe the initial benefit may have come from extra nutrients reaching the soil. Then around the early 2000s, the satellite record captured a shift, with tree health dipping and many lodgepole pines dying near the center of activity.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/plants_predict-volcanic-eruptions_satellite-photos_credit-McGill-University_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/plants_predict-volcanic-eruptions_satellite-photos_credit-McGill-University_1s.webp" alt="Images of the study area in 1994 compared to 2022, with the significant loss of trees in the epicenter of the hydrothermal area. Landsat images (c, d) highlight the decline in plant health in the central area with lighter color shading corresponding to lower Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values. Credit: Bogue et al. McGill University" class="wp-image-1955545"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Images of the study area in 1994 compared to 2022, with the significant loss of trees in the epicenter of the hydrothermal area. Landsat images (c, d) highlight the decline in plant health in the central area with lighter color shading corresponding to lower Normalized Difference Vegetation Index values. Credit: Bogue et al. McGill University</figcaption></figure>



Infrared data suggested that soil temperatures in parts of the site exceeded 122°F, and that poisonous gases and acidic fluids were breaking down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant tissues</a>.



Over time, the zone of stress spread outward, and a bare patch of dead trees became more visible. This persistent change confirmed that a deeper process was heating the ground and altering the chemistry that plants depend on.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-from-plants-that-a-volcano-is-waking-up">Signs from plants that a volcano is waking up</h2>



The research team linked these findings to pathways of hydrothermal fluids moving toward the surface. In some areas, mineral buildup may have clogged old routes, forcing new channels to open. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-activity-will-increase-due-to-glacial-retreat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earthquake data</a> supported this interpretation. Small tremors can indicate that magma or hot fluids are seeking different escape routes.



Collectively, these events point to activity that might have begun well before on-the-ground surveys took note.



Observations also suggest that this expansion reached a limit. Some recent field checks found signs of new seedlings taking hold in once-barren terrain. 



This could mean the local system is calming, at least for the moment. Changes in vegetation and plant life can serve as a reminder that volcanoes and their processes are not always linear. Conditions can shift as gases and fluids come and go.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



These discoveries illustrate how forests can serve as eyes on a hidden world. Researchers have often relied on thermal cameras and gas detectors to evaluate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic hazards</a>, but those instruments have limitations.



In some places, there is no easy way to install or maintain them. Harsh weather, dense canopies, and rough slopes can hamper efforts to collect reliable data.



Satellite imagery provides wide coverage without the need for a permanent presence in challenging locations. 



Vegetation-based monitoring is not a standalone method, but it can offer valuable hints for scientists. If the data show unusual patterns of greening or die-off, teams can schedule closer inspection or deploy instruments before any major event.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanoes-plants-and-a-safer-tomorrow">Volcanoes, plants, and a safer tomorrow</h2>



Every volcano is unique. Some are surrounded by thick forests, while others sit in deserts or at high elevations. 



Where conditions support enough plant life, scientists can try vegetation indexes to look for shifts that might signal building magma. 



In other areas, this strategy may be less useful or confounded by drought, wildfires, or different species that react in unexpected ways.



The hope is to combine these plant observations with other signals. Minor quakes, ground swelling, and changes in gas composition all help create a clearer picture of what lies beneath the surface. 



Scientists continue to refine these approaches. As they gather more information, they can figure out how to focus resources on volcanoes that pose the greatest risk.



The story at Tern Lake shows that forests can act as an early warning system, revealing shifts that might mean an eruption is more likely. By studying these patterns, experts might someday issue alerts sooner than ever before.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GC010938" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems</a>.



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Plants and trees are able to predict volcano eruptions

Volcanoes hold incredible power, but similar to plants and their...

Many of the foods we enjoy, such as apples, almonds, and pumpkin spices, rely on pollinators like bees and butterflies. These organisms play a critical role in producing one-third of our food supply and significantly impact the quality, flavor, and market value of crops.



A recent study&nbsp;by researchers from the University of Göttingen sheds light on this underexplored yet critical aspect of agriculture.



Pollinators influence crop quality through their movement across plantations and the variety of plants they visit. However, current strategies tend to focus heavily on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-wars-plants-compete-for-space-on-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supporting pollinators</a> while neglecting the importance of plant quality.



The researchers argue that understanding species-specific pollinator behavior and strategic crop variety distribution can significantly enhance fruit quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollination-s-impact-on-global-agriculture">Pollination’s impact on global agriculture</h2>



Animal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-protecting-our-vital-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a> plays a vital role in global agriculture, contributing to two-thirds of the world's most important crops. 



These crops - such as fruits, nuts, and pulses - rely on pollinators like bees and are valued at hundreds of billions of US dollars annually. Beyond supporting food production, animal pollination ensures the supply of essential nutrients.



For instance, pollinator-dependent crops provide over 90% of the dietary vitamin C we consume, along with substantial levels of carotenoids and antioxidants, which are crucial for human health.



Pollinators, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bee-day-2024-bee-engaged-with-youth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a>, directly enhance the nutritional and commercial value of crops. In the case of rapeseed, bees increase its polyunsaturated fatty acid and total oil content, making the crop healthier and more valuable. 



Similarly, they improve avocado production by boosting the oil content and increasing the fruit's weight, leading to better quality and higher market value. This highlights the indispensable role of animal pollination not just in crop yields but also in enhancing food quality and nutritional benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollinators-and-fruit-quality">Pollinators and fruit quality</h2>



The research highlights that not all pollinators or crops are the same when it comes to improving fruit quality. The type of pollinator species, the variety of the crop, and the quality of the pollen they transfer all play crucial roles in determining the final quality of the fruit.



If there are changes in how pollinators behave or in the arrangement of plants within a field, cross-pollination between different plant varieties might not happen effectively. This can lead to reduced fruit quality or failed pollination altogether.



Therefore, it is not just about having enough pollinators present, but also ensuring the right types of pollinators <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-plants-generate-heat-to-attract-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interact with crops</a> in the right ways and at the right times. 



The spatial movement of pollinators and how they engage with different plant varieties in the field are key factors in producing high-quality crops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-quality-oriented-research">The need for quality-oriented research</h2>



The study was conducted by Professor Teja Tscharntke, Dr. Carolina Ocampo-Ariza, and Dr. Wiebke Kämper from the Functional Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology Group at the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a>.



“The results of our review show that future research should not only focus on the quantity but also more on the quality of the crops. After all, a better nutrient composition benefits the health of consumers,” noted the researchers.



They advocate for the following: promoting cross-pollination by considering crop variety and pollen quality; comparing the quality of self-pollinated and cross-pollinated varieties; and designing cultivated areas and landscapes to maximize pollinator mobility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-crop-improvement-with-pollinators">Sustainable crop improvement with pollinators</h2>



By applying these recommendations, agriculture can achieve more than just higher yields - crops can be produced with superior nutritional value. This calls for a detailed understanding of how pollinator behavior, crop variety, and pollen quality interact to influence fruit quality.



An effective strategy ensures that pollinators are not only present but also appropriately paired with the right crop varieties. This targeted approach boosts nutrient content, enhances sensory appeal, and raises the commercial value of crops.



Such practices directly benefit farmers through better harvests and profits, while consumers gain access to healthier, more nutritious food.



Additionally, this approach supports <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-twist-in-the-evolution-of-plant-pollinator-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable agriculture</a> by promoting biodiversity and optimizing pollinator movement. It promotes a balanced system where the needs of the environment, farmers, and consumers are met, contributing to long-term agricultural success.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/trends/plant-science/fulltext/S1360-1385(24)00272-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Plant Science</a>.



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How pollinators boost the nutritional value of crops

Many of the foods we enjoy, such as apples, almonds,...

A new study led by Pennsylvania State University has found that when deciding when they will get their next meal, different bee species may be attracted to different flower traits.&nbsp;



This finding, based on research with two species of solitary bees, highlights the intriguing ways bees select the flowers they visit.&nbsp;



The study illuminates the importance of floral traits such as number of blooms and nutritional content, expanding our understanding of plant–pollinator interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bee-species-with-distinct-priorities">Bee species with distinct priorities</h2>



The research focused on two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-threatens-solitary-bees-and-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solitary bee species</a>: the horned-face bee - known for pollinating apples and blueberries - and the alfalfa leafcutting bee, which pollinates alfalfa.&nbsp;



The scientists discovered that while the horned-face bee gravitated toward plants displaying a large quantity of flowers, the alfalfa leafcutting bee instead preferred blooms with a higher protein-to-lipid ratio in the pollen.



“Information on the foraging strategies of different bee species give insights for understanding how plant-pollinator interactions evolved,” said lead author Jaya Sravanthi Mokkapati, a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>.&nbsp;



“Our study also highlights the need for more research on seasonal foraging habits among various bee species, which can deepen our understanding of their vital role in pollination and plant reproduction.”



This pronounced difference in focus - quantity for one species and nutritional quality for the other - demonstrates that even closely related insects can exhibit divergent foraging behaviors.&nbsp;



These variations matter for both ecological balance and practical considerations, such as when and how to restore pollinator habitats or ensure crop pollination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-co-evolution-of-plants-and-pollinators">Co-evolution of plants and pollinators</h2>



Pollinators like bees and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a> have co-evolved over thousands of years, forming a symbiotic relationship. As bees gather nectar and pollen for sustenance, they assist in plant reproduction, transferring pollen between flowers.&nbsp;



Crops ranging from fruits to vegetables and nuts depend on this process, which is essential for producing much of the human food supply. However, many pollinator populations are declining, partly due to the loss of the flowering plants they rely on.



“Bees can be attracted to plants based on a number of traits, such as the color, scent, size, number and nutritional content of its flowers,” said&nbsp; co-author Christina Grozinger, a professor of Entomology at Penn State.&nbsp;



“However, because these traits are co-evolved in flowers, it can also be very challenging to pinpoint which traits are the ones attracting which bees.”



By analyzing these evolved plant traits, researchers can better grasp how bees make their foraging decisions and, in turn, how best to support pollinator populations in decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-flowers-for-quality">Choosing flowers for quality</h2>



The research team examined two solitary bee species precisely because of their distinct ecological niches.&nbsp;



The horned-face bee is active during the spring, a season marked by fewer resources and shorter bloom windows. The alfalfa leafcutting bee, on the other hand, emerges in summer, a time abundant in floral options.



“In contrast, the alfalfa leafcutting bee is a summer species that typically has access to more abundant resources,” Mokkapati said. “We hypothesized that these bees can afford to be more selective, choosing flowers based on nutritional quality instead of quantity.”



By observing how these bees visited plants, the scientists were able to pinpoint the different variables each species valued in its foraging. This approach included analyzing pollen content as well as recording the sheer number of flowers on each plant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-bee-conservation">Implications for bee conservation</h2>



According to the researchers, the results of this study have important implications for restoring and managing habitats for pollinators.&nbsp;



Landscapes might need to include plant varieties that offer either numerous flowers for bees that seek quantity or high-quality pollen for species focusing on nutritional benefits.&nbsp;



Ensuring these resources are available throughout the growing season could reinforce bee populations, enhance biodiversity, and bolster pollination services for agriculture.



“By raising awareness of how these gardens can provide essential resources for bees, we can inspire community involvement and commitment to preserving local biodiversity,” Mokkapati said.&nbsp;



“This collective effort not only benefits the bees but also enhances the beauty and ecological health of our surroundings.”



The researchers note that many pollinator populations require immediate interventions and that these strategies could help sustain not only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-honey-bee-day-protecting-our-vital-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a> (often the focus of public concern) but also lesser-known solitary bees like the horned-face and alfalfa leafcutting bees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-directions">Future research directions</h2>



While the study reveals how these two bee species differ in their foraging strategies, the authors suggest deeper investigation is needed to uncover the reasons behind such variations.&nbsp;



Scientists aim to explore whether differences in sensory perception, genetic factors, or life history strategies inform why one bee species chooses to prioritize floral abundance while another looks for a certain balance of proteins and lipids in pollen.



By diving more deeply into these aspects, future research may shed light on how bees adapt to various environmental conditions. It could also identify potential vulnerabilities if, for example, climate change alters the availability or quality of their preferred flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ensuring-bee-health-and-biodiversity">Ensuring bee health and biodiversity</h2>



As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> remain fundamental to global food security and ecosystem functioning, understanding these nuanced foraging preferences is critical.&nbsp;



The study emphasizes that it is not solely honey bees that matter - solitary bees and other pollinators have their own crucial roles.&nbsp;



Encouraging and facilitating plant diversity, offering both abundant blooms and nutrient-rich pollen sources, may prove key to preserving these vital insects for the benefit of ecosystems and agricultural communities alike.



In the broader context, this work illustrates how the interplay between plant traits and bee behaviors can shape pollinator communities.&nbsp;



By harnessing this understanding for conservation practices, we can cultivate healthier environments for bees and, in turn, sustain the pollination services that underpin so much of our food supply and natural heritage.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae443" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS Nexus</a>.



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Some bees value quality over quantity in flower selection

A new study led by Pennsylvania State University has found...

Ancient societies had all sorts of attitudes toward altered states of mind. Some favored fermented drinks, while others explored psychoactive plants with potent effects. 



Either way, there is a growing body of evidence that many of our ancestors used mind-altering substances in ceremonial settings, personal rituals, and possibly even on the battlefield. 



From what we know about ancient cultures in Mesopotamia, the Mediterranean, and beyond, it seems people were curious about the boundaries of consciousness from the very beginning.



In a new paper in Praehistorische Zeitschrift, researchers discuss the possibility that certain Germanic fighters experimented with psychoactive substances to gain an edge in warfare.



The study was led by archaeologist <a href="https://akokowski.academia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prof. Andrzej Kokowski</a> alongside biologists from <a href="https://study.gov.pl/university/maria-curie-sklodowska-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maria Curie-Skłodowska University</a> in Lublin, Poland, and it taps into a fascinating area of debate about what these ancient communities might have consumed before they clashed with soldiers of the mighty Roman Empire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-humans-and-psychoactive-plants">Ancient humans and psychoactive plants</h2>



Ancient civilizations in the Middle East left us clues that they understood the power of certain psychoactive plants or plant extracts. 



Evidence from Mesopotamia <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/arcm.12806" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suggests</a> that the Sumerians recognized the potential of poppy cultivation over 5,000 years ago.



Meanwhile, the Egyptians produced beer as early as <a href="https://academic.oup.com/book/51721/chapter-abstract/419816733?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">8,000 years ago</a>, and some <a href="https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/43c3119d-743e-4c7b-a028-ca29b1ab3fc6/content" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> believe that they later discovered ways to harness the poppy’s narcotic components for medical and religious ceremonies.&nbsp;



Across the Mediterranean, the Greeks refined methods of harvesting poppy sap to make opium, which became a prized substance in certain circles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-tools-in-germanic-contexts">Hidden tools in Germanic contexts</h2>



The new study highlights how small artifacts, possibly too tiny to hold food, may have delivered stimulating powders or tinctures to those who wielded swords and shields. 



Although a direct chemical analysis of these artifacts would be the gold standard of proof, the researchers rely on indirect clues from burial and settlement sites. 



The authors remark that certain items fit into the category of “dispensers,” indicating they might have delivered a measured dose of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/">potent substance</a> in the heat of conflict.



The team also introduce a thought-provoking line in their paper: “The ‘war on drugs’ seems to be the aberration.” 



This statement by the study's authors implies that, in ancient times, the notion of banning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these substances</a> may not have been front and center. 



Instead, societies either tolerated or ritualized them, weaving them into social gatherings, medical treatments, and possibly warfare traditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-misconceptions-and-roman-views">Cultural misconceptions and Roman views</h2>



One of the more intriguing angles is how the Romans regarded their northern adversaries. Romans often portrayed the so-called “barbarians” as unsophisticated, suggesting that refined substances like opium were beyond their reach. 



Yet material findings seem to contradict that assumption. Scholars argue that people living outside Roman borders had their own knowledge networks, which may have included information on creative uses of plants and fungi.



Other historical studies support the idea that ancient communities across Europe and Asia <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-real-impact-of-burning-magic-herbs-in-spiritual-rituals/">experimented with an array of herbs</a>. 



A range of species, including henbane and belladonna, was accessible through trade routes and local foraging. The question is whether some of these plants could have boosted courage or dulled pain during battle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychoactive-plants-impact">Psychoactive plants impact</h2>



If these warriors had any way to harness psychoactive substances, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-drug-use-found-during-bronze-age-ceremonies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychological effects</a> might have included the numbing of fear or the triggering heightened aggression. 



In the face of enemy lines, an altered state could offer perceived protection or confidence.



Away from the battlefield, the same substances might have been used to ease injuries or find temporary relief from stress.



Researchers also point out that large-scale access to psychoactive plants or extracts would have demanded precise expertise. 



Someone in the community would have needed to cultivate and distribute these items, and would have known about their potency. 



This opens discussions about economic networks that financed these endeavors. It may also hint at the existence of supply chains stretching across large territories and bringing together resources from different regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-reflections-on-the-ancient-past">Modern reflections on the ancient past</h2>



Discussions about drug use in antiquity challenge our assumptions about humanity’s relationship with altered consciousness. Today’s laws and views on intoxicants are shaped by modern cultures and governments.&nbsp;



People often regard drug use as a specific modern problem or rebellious act. Yet, archaeological evidence suggests that it can be an age-old behavior shaped by survival, celebration, and even worship.



Some contemporary <a href="https://www.hellenic.org.au/post/ritual-religious-drug-use-in-ancient-greece" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> hold that these early experiments helped shape social cohesion, ritualistic practices, and medical traditions.&nbsp;



The further we look into prehistory, the more we see how deeply entwined these substances might have been with community life. Whether they were used to ramp up bravery in <a href="https://www.caymanchem.com/news/drugs-used-in-conflict-and-wars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">war</a> or heal the wounded in small villages, they likely played a distinct role in shaping cultural identities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debates-and-continuing-questions">Debates and continuing questions</h2>



Studies on ancient drug use can provoke lively debate among archaeologists and historians. 



Some specialists believe that minimal chemical residue in the artifacts makes firm conclusions elusive. Others lean on contextual clues found near skeletal remains or in areas associated with combat. 



No matter the stance, each new piece of research fuels broader conversations about how ancient societies navigated social norms, survival strategies, and the universal human drive for altered experiences.



Several puzzles still remain. Did these <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25386392/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Germanic fighters</a> incorporate psychoactive mixtures into spiritual traditions as well? Were there dedicated roles for people in the community - like herbalists or specialists - who oversaw dosing?&nbsp;



These topics carry important anthropological questions about the balance between practical needs and personal exploration. Answers may emerge as more evidence surfaces, but for now, there is enough intrigue to keep experts on their toes.



The information for this article is published in the journal <a href="https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/pz-2024-2017/html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Praehistorische Zeitschrift</a>. 



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Ancient warriors may have used psychoactive plants for courage in battle

Ancient societies had all sorts of attitudes toward altered states...

Plants face the constant challenge of allocating energy between growth and defense. While growth ensures survival and reproduction, defense protects against harmful bacteria. 



Until now, scientists struggled to explain how plants achieve this balance. Researchers at Princeton University recently uncovered new insights into this process, revealing the surprising role of soil bacteria in managing plants' immune responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-soil-bacteria-help-plants">How soil bacteria help plants</h2>



Published in&nbsp;the journal Cell Reports, the study explores how certain soil bacteria impact plant immunity. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> produce enzymes that reduce immune activity in plants, enabling their roots to grow longer.



This discovery sheds light on how plants interact with microbiomes without triggering constant immune responses.



“This is trying to get at a really big biological question where there are not good answers - about how microbiomes interface with host immune systems,” said Jonathan Conway, the study’s senior author and an assistant professor of chemical and biological engineering.



“It’s a small step in the direction of trying to understand how microbes live on hosts - either plants or humans or other animals - all the time and don’t activate our immune responses constantly.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-health-and-growth">Balancing health and growth</h2>



The team focused on Arabidopsis, a small mustard plant often used in research. They engineered Arabidopsis seedlings with heightened sensitivity to flagellin, a bacterial protein that typically activates immune responses. 



On exposure to flagellin, these plants directed energy toward immunity, resulting in stunted root growth.



To identify bacteria that could suppress this immune response, the researchers introduced 165 bacterial species to the seedlings. 



Remarkably, 41% of these isolates suppressed the stunted growth response, allowing roots to grow longer. Among these,&nbsp;Dyella japonica&nbsp;emerged as particularly effective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enzyme-regulates-immune-system-response">Enzyme regulates immune system response </h2>



The researchers discovered that&nbsp;D. japonica, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-plays-an-overlooked-role-in-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil bacterium</a>, produces an enzyme called subtilase. This enzyme breaks down flagellin, a protein that normally triggers a plant's immune response. 



By degrading flagellin, subtilase prevents the plant's immune system from activating unnecessarily, enabling the roots to grow without being stunted.



To confirm subtilase's role, the team used genetic and biochemical techniques. These methods demonstrated that subtilase directly modulates the plant's immune response, proving its critical function.



Purifying the subtilase enzyme posed significant challenges, as obtaining a pure protein is essential for detailed analysis. A breakthrough came when Todd Naumann, a <a href="https://www.usda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USDA</a> chemist, suggested purifying the enzyme using yeast cells instead of bacteria. 



This alternative approach worked effectively, allowing the researchers to proceed with advanced studies on the enzyme's properties and functions.



“Now we can do chemistry with it, and we can actually look at this in vitro,” said co-first author Samuel Eastman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-role-of-soil-bacteria">Dual role of soil bacteria </h2>



The findings suggest that many soil bacteria may use similar enzymes to influence plant growth and immunity. This raises intriguing questions about the potential benefits for both plants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-bacteria-makes-flowers-more-attractive-to-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a>. 



One theory is that the enzymes prevent pathogens from invading plant roots by disabling their flagella. Alternatively, the enzymes might help pathogens evade detection, potentially increasing the risk of disease.



“So, in that way it could be suppressing pathogens as well as the plant immune system,” Eastman noted. However, he warned of the risks in agricultural applications. 



“We don’t want to compromise the immune system, but we also want plants to save that immune response for when it matters.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-crop-growth-and-plant-health">Improving crop growth and plant health</h2>



The team’s work opens doors to harnessing beneficial bacteria for agriculture while minimizing risks. With further research, these findings could lead to innovative ways to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-soil-boosts-crop-growth-by-over-50/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crop growth</a> without compromising plant health.



For now, scientists are one step closer to understanding the delicate balance of growth and defense in plants.



The study was a team effort involving nine <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton</a> researchers, including six undergraduates. Senior thesis projects played a vital role, such as that of Britley Jones from the Class of 2023.



Kaeli Ficco, another key contributor and a Princeton graduate, engineered mutant bacterial strains to confirm the genetic basis of immune suppression. 



“I really liked how discovery-based the project was,” Ficco said, reflecting on her contributions.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(24)01414-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports</a>.



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Soil bacteria help plants balance growth and immunity

Plants face the constant challenge of allocating energy between growth...

The sixth extinction, also known as the Anthropocene extinction, refers to the ongoing, unprecedented loss of species. Unlike previous mass extinction events in Earth's history, which were driven by natural phenomena such as massive volcanic eruptions, the current extinction crisis is largely attributed to human activities.



In a recent study, a team of Irish researchers set out to examine how the public reacts to hearing the news of a species extinction. 



The analysis revealed that while social media users show an initial surge of sympathy, the sentiment fades quickly. This fleeting engagement raises questions about how deeply people connect with conservation issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-reaction-to-species-extinction">Public reaction to species extinction</h2>



The study was led by researchers from the University of Galway, <a href="https://www.ucd.ie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College Dublin</a>, and <a href="https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maynooth University</a>. The goal was to examine how people react to the extinction of different species.



The researchers focused on eight species, including the famous Lonesome George - the last known Pinta Island tortoise who became a symbol of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>.



They also studied lesser-known species, such as Captain Cook's bean snail and the Rabbs fringe-limbed treefrog, which have similarly disappeared from the planet.



To gather insights, the team used a method called "culturomics." This approach involves analyzing digital data to track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-how-and-when-humans-and-mammals-will-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural trends</a> and public interest. 



By studying online activity, the researchers analyzed over two million <a href="https://www.wikipedia.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wikipedia</a> page visits and more than 100,000 tweets and retweets from 2007 to 2023. 



This data helped them understand how people react online to extinction news, revealing patterns of interest, mourning, and engagement across different platforms.



“In our study, we tracked changes in tweets and Wikipedia page visits before and after the extinction of eight species ranging from Lonesome George to more obscure species such as the bean snail,” explained Dr. Kevin Healy of the <a href="https://www.universityofgalway.ie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Galway</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-spike-in-interest-then-silence">A spike in interest, then silence</h2>



The findings revealed that public interest in extinction news spikes dramatically on social media immediately after a species is declared extinct. 



“Overall, it does look like people care and are saddened by the news of extinction. We see words like 'RIP' and 'lost' commonly appear, and that the location of tweets expands from close to the species range to across the globe after extinction,” noted Dr. Susan Canavan, the study’s lead author.



The researchers found that while social media platforms see a short-lived surge in activity following news of a species' extinction, Wikipedia exhibits a different pattern. Wikipedia page visits remained steady over time, showing sustained interest in learning about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct species</a>.



This suggests that people turn to Wikipedia for deeper, long-term exploration of the topic, whereas social media reactions are often immediate and brief. 



The contrast highlights how different platforms serve distinct purposes: social media captures initial emotional responses and fleeting discussions, while Wikipedia supports extended engagement and information-seeking behavior. 



This difference signifies the varied ways people process and interact with extinction news depending on the platform they use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-awareness">Impact of awareness</h2>



The study highlights the potential power of public engagement in conservation. 



“People’s engagement with conservation issues, such as extinction, does matter, as it can drive funding, or add support for conservation policy and even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-cheetah-day-2024-racing-against-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence conversations</a> on controversial topics such as attempting to bring species back from extinction using biotechnology,” Dr. Healy emphasized.



The passing of Lonesome George in 2012 captured worldwide attention. His death symbolized the vulnerability of species and highlighted the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect endangered animals.



Similarly, the extinction of other species, such as the Bramble Cay mosaic-tailed rat - the first mammal believed to have gone extinct due to climate change - and the West African black rhinoceros, sparked global discussions.



These events not only raised awareness about the threats facing wildlife but also ignited conversations on the broader impact of human activities on biodiversity. 



Each extinction served as a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation and the irreversible loss caused by species disappearing forever.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mourning-species-extinction-in-the-digital-age">Mourning species extinction in the digital age</h2>



The research reveals a bittersweet reality: while people momentarily mourn extinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-one-third-of-the-worlds-trees-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, the depth of engagement often doesn't last. 



The rise in global conversations about extinction on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) shows that people care, but the fleeting nature of this concern highlights the challenges conservation efforts face in maintaining momentum.



Ultimately, this study offers valuable insights into how the public connects with conservation issues. It also raises a crucial question: how can we transform brief moments of mourning into lasting action to prevent further losses?



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Public concern over species extinctions fades quickly

The sixth extinction, also known as the Anthropocene extinction, refers...

Peyote dots the southern tip of Texas, emerging amidst the dusty aridity and cracked earth like otherworldly creations. These bluish-green cacti, found only here and in northern Mexico, are no ordinary plants.



To the local Native American Church members, peyote is less of a plant and more of a holy presence. Places where peyote plants flourish are reverently referred to as the "peyote gardens."



Within the DNA of this modest plant lies a critical aspect of Native American culture. 



Peyote cacti have been steadfast companions to Indigenous communities, serving as healers for the physical and mental afflictions wrought by colonization, displacement, and the erosion of culture, religion, and language.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sacred-plant-with-a-controlled-substance">Sacred plant with a controlled substance</h2>



One might wonder what makes the peyote plant coveted. It contains a spectrum of psychoactive alkaloids, primarily the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hallucinogen-use-is-on-the-rise-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hallucinogen</a> mescaline, which is known for its psychedelic properties.



Despite being a controlled substance under federal law, a 1994 amendment to the American Indian Religious Freedom Act allows Native Americans to use peyote for traditional religious purposes.



However, for the past two decades, access to this "medicine," as it is called, has been an escalating concern for the Native American practitioners of peyotism.



These practitioners, which make up a large group of 400,000 individuals in the United States, have raised concerns about their lack of access to peyote.



They attribute the dwindling availability of the slow-growing cactus to poaching, excessive harvesting, agricultural activities, housing developments, wind farms, the border wall, and the burgeoning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-offers-new-explanation-for-how-psychedelic-drugs-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychedelic</a> renaissance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-opinions-on-peyote-conservation">Diverse opinions on peyote conservation</h2>



While most agree about the dire need for peyote conservation, the Native American Church community houses a diversity of opinions on how to achieve this.



Some members are suspicious of investors' intentions and prefer government funding to safeguard the plant. Peyote, after all, represents more to them than a plant; it embodies the Creator's spirit.



Among many poignant anecdotes that highlight the spiritual significance of peyote, one stands out. 



Adrian Primeaux from the Yankton Sioux and Apache lineage recalls a tale of a malnourished Apache woman who was guided by a peyote plant to survival during a forced relocation by the U.S. government.



This plant wasn't merely a source of sustenance; it was a spiritual guide and a north star for the Native community navigating years of traumatic history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-return-of-peyote-gardens">The return of peyote gardens</h2>



In 2017, the National Council of Native American Churches purchased land in Hebbronville, Texas, to establish the Indigenous Peyote Conservation Initiative (IPCI). 



This non-profit organization oversees a peyote preserve that is not harvested but naturally propagated in its habitat.



Steven Benally, an IPCI board member, recalls his emotional return to the peyote gardens after years of disconnection, stating: "This is real!"



His words encapsulate the deep bond between the Native Americans and the peyote gardens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-delicate-balance-of-peyote-conservation">The delicate balance of peyote conservation</h2>



The debate on peyote conservation isn't a simple one. While some argue that cultivation outside of its natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat</a> is necessary for the species's survival, many Native American Church members contest that such a move would dilute its sacred nature.



Hershel Clark, secretary for the Teesto chapter of the Azee Bee Nahagha of Diné Nation, explained that the ceremonial protocols were bestowed by the Creator. 



This is why growing peyote outside of its natural habitat or synthesizing it into pills is not supported.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-and-future-of-peyote-preservation">Funding and future of peyote preservation</h2>



Funding has been a significant challenge for peyote preservation efforts. While the Native American Church of North America seeks financial support from the U.S. government, IPCI has taken a different route.



The non-profit kick-started their endeavours with funding from the Riverstyx Foundation run by Cody Swift, a psychotherapist and psychedelic therapy research supporter. 



The organization continues to seek philanthropic dollars to propel its mission while remaining open to government funding.



However, there is a degree of skepticism about the intentions of Swift and other investors among some members of the Native American Church. 



Regardless, there is an indisputable consensus: the sacred peyote plant must be protected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-supply-and-rising-demand">Limited supply and rising demand</h2>



It is clear that opening peyote up to a broader market could create a supply crisis that favors those with financial resources.



Native American Church members might find themselves struggling to access their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-real-impact-of-burning-magic-herbs-in-spiritual-rituals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sacred plant</a> while witnessing others use it in ways they consider profane. 



Zulema "Julie" Morales, one of only three licensed peyoteros legally allowed to harvest the plant for sale to church members, sympathizes with this sentiment.



Morales recalls a time when her father could fill a dozen large trays with peyote, but now she can barely fill one, not because of ethical harvesting practices, but because of illegal poaching.



As the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theory-of-native-american-origins-undermined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Native American</a> communities continue to cherish, protect, and conserve the sacred peyote plant, the rest of the world must extend their understanding and respect for the unique spiritual bond shared by the communities and this modest, yet powerful, plant. 



Let it be a lesson to us all about the harmonious coexistence of man and nature, and the profound sacredness that can spring from such a bond.



Information for this article comes from a <a href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/texas-news/psychedelic-renaissance-development-threaten-peyote/3728887/#:~:text=An%20initiative%20to%20conserve%20and%20protect%20peyote&amp;text=He%20recalls%20losing%20access%20to,to%20Native%20American%20Church%20members.">release</a> by the Associated Press.



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Sacred peyote gardens: A cultural legacy under threat

Peyote dots the southern tip of Texas, emerging amidst the...

More than one-third of all animals on Earth, from beetles to cows to elephants, subsist on plant-based diets. Since plants are typically low in calories, herbivorous creatures can already find it challenging to get the energy they need.&nbsp;



Now, as climate change affects growing conditions, some of the plant-based foods that animals rely on are losing some of their nutritional value.



Human activities continue to increase atmospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> levels and raise global temperatures. In response, many plants in ecosystems around the world are growing faster.&nbsp;



Some researchers refer to this phenomenon as the “greening of the Earth,” and it can potentially offset some greenhouse gas emissions by locking more carbon into plant matter. 



However, there is a trade-off: these rapidly growing plants often pack fewer nutrients into each bite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-quality-and-animal-population-declines">Plant quality and animal population declines</h2>



Together with her colleagues at the <a href="https://www.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Institution</a>, Ellen Welti studies how this type of nutrient dilution influences species across the food web - from tiny grasshoppers to giant pandas. 



They suspect that long-term declines in plant quality may be a largely unnoticed factor in falling animal populations. 



These changes in plant nutrition aren’t as visually obvious as rising sea levels, nor are they sudden like hurricanes or extreme heatwaves. Nonetheless, they can have significant impacts over time.



If plants become less nutritious, herbivores may need more time to find and consume enough food, making them more vulnerable to predators and other hazards. 



Inadequate nutrient intake can also reduce animals’ fitness, affecting their growth, reproduction, and survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-carbon-and-declining-nutrients">Rising carbon and declining nutrients</h2>



Scientists have already shown that climate change is causing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-nutrient-loss-due-to-heavy-rainfall-threatens-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient</a> dilution in human food crops. 



Decreases in important micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper, are a particular concern. Records of crop nutrient content reveal that these elements have declined over time.



For humans, the loss of iron, zinc, and protein in staple foods is expected to worsen in the coming decades as CO₂ concentrations climb. 



Such deficiencies could significantly affect global health and survival, especially in regions that heavily depend on crops like rice and wheat, including parts of East and Central Asia.



The quality of livestock feed is also declining. Cattle, which already spend substantial time grazing, are finding it increasingly difficult to consume enough protein.&nbsp;



Protein concentrations in grasses are dropping across rangelands, diminishing animals’ weight gains and costing producers money. Moreover, wild species aren’t immune to nutrient dilution either.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bamboo-quality-and-panda-health">Bamboo quality and panda health</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancestors-of-giant-pandas-had-a-completely-different-diet/">Giant pandas</a>, a culturally significant threatened species, rely entirely on bamboo. 



Because pandas breed slowly and need extensive, uninterrupted bamboo forests for habitat, their existence is jeopardized by the conversion of land for agriculture and development. 



Pandas may also become an emblem of the risks posed by nutrient dilution.



The giant panda is considered an “umbrella species,” so preserving its habitat benefits many other organisms sharing its environment.&nbsp;



Notably, giant pandas consume large quantities of bamboo daily. Now, rising temperatures are reducing bamboo’s nutritional value and making it harder for the plant to survive.



Because bamboo is such an essential resource for pandas, any decline in its nutrients could affect panda health and population numbers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-outcomes-for-insects">Mixed outcomes for insects</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Insects</a> play vital roles in pollination, serve as food sources for birds and animals, and fulfill other ecological functions. 



Yet many insect species worldwide are in decline, including in places less affected by direct human activities. Shifts in plant chemistry may be influencing these declines.



Numerous insects are plant feeders and thus likely to be influenced by reduced plant nutritional quality. 



Experiments have shown that when carbon dioxide levels go up, certain insect populations decrease, at least partly due to lower food quality.



However, not all insects respond similarly. Leaf-chewing insects, such as grasshoppers and caterpillars, appear most vulnerable, experiencing smaller body sizes and diminished reproduction.&nbsp;



Conversely, locusts thrive on plants rich in carbon and might flourish under elevated CO₂ conditions. Insects like aphids and cicadas, which feed on phloem rather than leaves, could also benefit from carbon-rich plant structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-quality-and-struggling-animals">Plant quality and struggling animals</h2>



Communities that are already nutrient-poor - like the ancient soils of Australia and the Amazon and Congo tropical basins - stand to be the most affected, since the animals in those areas already struggle to get enough nutrition.&nbsp;



Rapidly warming waters are likewise reducing the nutritional content of giant sea kelp, which serves as a crucial food source in the open ocean.



Certain herbivores may be hit harder, particularly those needing higher-quality diets. Hind-gut fermenters - such as rodents, rabbits, koalas, horses, rhinoceroses, and elephants - rely on microbes in their intestines to extract nutrients from fibrous plant materials, so they need nutrient-rich forage.&nbsp;



Smaller animals, with faster metabolisms, also depend on more nutrient-dense food and may struggle if plant quality falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



To grasp the role of nutrient dilution in population declines, more evidence is needed. This includes artificial experiments that raise CO₂ levels to mimic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-plants-adapt-to-changing-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, along with field studies that track changing plant chemistry and its impact on wild animal populations.



Over the long term, scientists aim to uncover how decreasing plant nutritional value might reshape food webs. Changes to plant species, traits, and interactions could alter relationships among predators, prey, and ecosystems at large.&nbsp;



At a time when climate change is already straining the planet, nutrient dilution adds another subtle yet far-reaching challenge that may reshape life on Earth.



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Plants and fruits are starting to lose their nutritional value

More than one-third of all animals on Earth, from beetles...

To a leaf, the impact of a raindrop is equivalent to a person being struck by a falling bowling ball. Despite this seemingly catastrophic force, leaves endure, and new research offers insights into the physics that make this possible.&nbsp;



These findings, detailed in a recent study published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prfluids/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevFluids.9.123605" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review Fluids</a>, could have applications in agriculture, environmental science, and renewable energy technologies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamics-of-raindrops-and-plant-leaves">Dynamics of raindrops and plant leaves</h2>



The study, titled “Resonance and Damping in Drop-Cantilever Interactions,” used high-speed photography to closely examine what happens when a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-turbulence-clouds-makes-tiny-water-droplets-turn-into-rain-showers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water droplet</a> hits a flexible plastic beam.&nbsp;



The researchers observed not only the deformation of the droplet but also how the beam vibrates in response to the impact. This setup mimics the interaction between raindrops and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-discovered-in-plant-leaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant leaves</a>.



“In this study, we investigated the dynamics of a droplet impacting and oscillating a polycarbonate cantilever beam of nine varying lengths,” noted the researchers.



“We analyzed the cantilever's damping and vibration frequency in relation to a resonance length, where the frequencies of the droplet and the cantilever are equal.”



Sunghwan Jung, a professor of biological and environmental engineering at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>, likened the beam to a springboard. 



When the droplet strikes the beam, it triggers a dynamic interplay: the beam bends downward as the droplet stretches upward, and vice versa. 



Professor Jung explained that this opposing motion creates a “strong damping effect,” meaning the vibrations dissipate quickly. For plants, this rapid damping reduces stress on their structures, potentially prolonging their lifespan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raindrop-impacts-and-plant-recovery-nbsp">Raindrop impacts and plant recovery&nbsp;</h2>



One key discovery in the study was the role of resonance. Lead author Crystal Fowler, a doctoral student in biological engineering, noted an intriguing pattern.



When the natural frequency of the beam aligned with that of the droplet, the droplet moved significantly more, and the beam’s oscillations diminished more quickly.



This phenomenon, previously observed but not fully understood, revealed that synchronization between the frequencies of the beam and the droplet amplifies the droplet's motion, leading to enhanced damping.&nbsp;



The result is a quicker return to stability for the beam. For plants, this means they can recover more efficiently after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a>, reducing mechanical strain and promoting longevity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-damping-effect-of-raindrop-impacts-nbsp">The damping effect of raindrop impacts&nbsp;</h2>



“Upon reaching the resonance length, the frequencies of both the droplet and the cantilever align, and the cantilever is out of phase with the oscillation of the droplet's apex. This leads to increased damping rates,” noted the researchers.



“At this resonance length, the droplet's force and the direction of the cantilever oppose each other. When the cantilever length exceeds the resonance length, it synchronizes more with the droplet apex. This alignment allows the droplet force and the cantilever to work in phase.”



According to the researchers, the findings provide fundamental insights into the damping effect of droplet impacts on elastic surfaces around resonance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-for-science-and-technology">Broader implications for science and technology</h2>



Understanding the dynamics of raindrop impact on leaves has implications beyond botany. This research sheds light on how rain moves through forest canopies and could inform studies of plant evolution and morphology.&nbsp;



For instance, Jung's lab has also explored how rain disperses spores and how plant vibrations could indicate hydration levels.



The findings also open doors to innovations in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>. By replacing the plastic beam with a piezoelectric material - one that generates electricity when subjected to pressure - rainfall could become a source of power.&nbsp;



Professor Jung envisions a system where beams resembling plant structures harness energy from rain, creating a fusion of nature and technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-personal-milestone-in-discovery">A personal milestone in discovery</h2>



The study marks Fowler’s first publication and reflects her lifelong fascination with understanding the natural world.&nbsp;



Growing up in the Navajo Nation, surrounded by plants and gardens, Fowler developed an early interest in exploration and discovery. 



Her work in biological engineering now allows her to uncover the mechanisms that govern life’s resilience and adapt those principles for practical use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-inspired-energy-solutions-nbsp">Nature-inspired energy solutions&nbsp;</h2>



This research highlights the remarkable adaptations of plants to withstand environmental challenges and points to potential human applications inspired by nature.&nbsp;



From better understanding plant ecosystems to creating energy-harvesting technologies, the study demonstrates how curiosity-driven science can lead to innovative solutions for modern challenges.



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Nature-inspired energy: Lessons from leaves and raindrops

To a leaf, the impact of a raindrop is equivalent...

Endangered plants