Researchers have uncovered the unique structure and function of the S1-type nuclease enzyme DAN1 in the Lance-leaved sundew, Drosera adelae, which aids the carnivorous plant in breaking down prey for nutrient absorption.
It was thought that carnivorous plants put their flowers well away from their traps to avoid catching pollinators. Research from Asia suggests that something more complex could be happening.
There are plant biology journals that seem to concentrate on a single taxon (you know the ones I mean!) – e.g. The Plant Journal and The Plant Cell. There are others devoted to the molecular biology of plants, such as...
In the classic novel The Day of the Triffids carnivorous plants hunted a blinded human population. Drosera meristocaulis cannot walk, but that makes it even more peculiar because its not found where you’d expect...
A little while ago we looked at auxotrophic algae getting a helping hand from bacteria; now we’ll take a look at ‘proper plants’ that get a little help from animals (in a sort of mixotrophy). But it’s not exactly...