Green warriors: Plants on the frontline against microplastics
With escalating concerns about the enduring impact of plastic waste, phytoremediation emerges as a promising solution. This method utilizes plants to capture and degrade pollutants, providing an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative.....»»
Rhythmic gene expression in plants is crucial for symbiosis with nutrient-providing bacteria, study finds
Legumes thrive in low-nitrogen environments by partnering with rhizobia, soil bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium, a usable form for the plants. These beneficial bacteria are housed in root nodules formed on legume roots......»»
Of ants and trees: "Evolutionary déjà vu" in the tropical rainforest
Ants are famous for their regimented and complex social behaviors. In the tropics, they are also famous for forming mutualisms with plants. Certain species of trees have conspicuous hollow swellings that house ants, often feeding the ants with specia.....»»
Study reveals key gene protecting plants from harmful metals in soil
The negative impact of human activity on Earth doesn't just affect our planet's atmosphere—it goes much deeper, into its soils. For instance, excessive application of manure or sewage sludge can increase heavy metal concentrations in agricultural l.....»»
Rare butterfly is behind "mass destruction" of rare Miami plants: Can both be protected?
A small butterfly once thought extinct has staged such a comeback in South Florida that it is now considered a bit of a garden pest—and a persistent problem for a renowned research facility where its caterpillars feast on a curated collection of tr.....»»
From roots to leaves: The nitrogen connection to photosynthetic efficiency
Photosynthesis efficiency in plants is influenced by the type of nitrogen absorbed. Ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3-) are the primary nitrogen sources, each affecting plant physiology differently. Variations in leaf anatomy, such as cell wall thickn.....»»
Green agendas clash in Nevada as company grows rare plant to help it survive effects of a mine
A botanist gently strokes the pollen of endangered wildflowers with a paintbrush as she tries to reenact nature inside a small greenhouse in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada......»»
Our cities" secret gardens: We connect with nature in neglected green spaces just as much as in parks
Access to nature is essential for our health and well-being. However, as our cities become increasingly crowded, it becomes more and more challenging to find ways to connect with nature in urban spaces......»»
Duckweed, a small aquatic plant, could revolutionize the food of tomorrow
The idea of eating aquatic plants might sound unappetizing at first......»»
Understanding willingness to pay for nationwide wastewater surveillance in Japan
Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased likelihood of other such outbreaks in the future warrant the strengthening of epidemic surveillance systems. Among these, continuous wastewater surveillance at wastewater treatment plants is considere.....»»
Crown-of-thorns starfish larvae feast on toxic cyanobacteria, study finds
Researchers have uncovered an under-the-sea phenomenon where coral-destroying crown-of-thorns starfish larvae have been feasting on blue-green algae bacteria known as "sea sawdust.".....»»
Modular design: New insights into protein factories in human mitochondria
The "power plants" of living cells, the mitochondria, probably evolved through endosymbiosis: A bacterium migrated into a primordial cell and eventually developed into an organelle that provides the cell with energy, among other things. Mitochondria.....»»
Smart soil can water and feed itself
A newly engineered type of soil can capture water out of thin air to keep plants hydrated and manage controlled release of fertilizer for a constant supply of nutrients......»»
Greener greenhouses promise more energy-efficient growing power
Commercial greenhouses in Europe are testing new energy and water efficiency technologies in support of the green transition......»»
The New UK Government Wants Clean Energy, Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and Public Transport Reform
Legislation in coming years will set up a publicly owned clean power company and leverage the Crown Estate for investment in green infrastructure......»»
Defect engineering leads to designer catalyst for production of green hydrogen
Efficient technology for splitting the hydrogen–oxygen bond in water could be the key to producing low-cost, green hydrogen for energy storage at an industrial scale. Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in achieving the U.S. Depar.....»»
North America auto manufacturing footprint unlikely to change through 2029, Chicago Fed says
Many existing plants will provide flexibility across propulsion systems as EV demand and consumer preferences fluctuate......»»
"Alien invasion": Researchers identify which exotic animals may soon hitchhike into Australia
Australia is renowned for its native flora and fauna, but did you know the continent is also home to about 3,000 "alien" species of animals, plants, fungi and microbes?.....»»
Land use impacts Minnesota"s invasive tansy spread, study finds
Common tansy, whose scientific name is Tanacetum vulgare, is an invasive plant found in Northeastern Minnesota spreading rapidly throughout the state. It can quickly establish dense monocultures that squeeze out native plants and is difficult and cos.....»»
How Forvia"s Lego-like automated robots help its plants become more efficient
Forvia says its flexible, automated door panel manufacturing lines at plants in Michigan and Tennessee give the French supplier a giant leg up on its competition......»»
Scientists unravel transition of survival strategies in grape family
In a study published in Nature Plants, scientists have identified the Eocene, Oligocene, and Miocene boundaries as turning points for the transition of survival strategies in the grape family (Vitaceae)......»»