"Shut up and die," the orchid's
flower tells its petals once it is pollinated. But the language used is not
known to us - it is chemical talk
and in orchids, ethylene does the
talking. Now, botanists have found
a way of tapping into the chemical
talk of plants using lasers which are
so sensitive as to pick up even one
molecule of the substance targeted.
A lot of work has been done with
lasers tuned in to ethylene gas - a
plant hormone, which can be
released if the plant is overwatered
(BBC- Wildlife, Vol 13, No 5).
Lately, Bristol University botanists have been targeting a fragrant
gas called methyl jasmonate that
appears to warn neighbouring
plants of potential insect attacks.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.