Extra: The Hideen Power of Leaves
Summary
Jonathan Silvertown, Professor of Evolutionary Ecology, joins Jonathan McCrea to explore the hidden complexity of leaves. They discuss how leaves actively sense their environment, move to shed dew, and recruit "bodyguards" like ants and mites for protection. The conversation also covers leaf shape diversity, from the Venus flytrap’s rapid closure to cactus spines, highlighting how physical adaptations help plants survive in various climates.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to the hidden power of leaves
Photosynthesis and leaf senses
How leaves move using pulvini
Why leaves lower at night to shed dew
Chemical alarms and predator detection
Attracting ant bodyguards via nectaries
Hairy leaf armpits and mite defense
Convergent evolution in rainforest leaves
Leaf holes and cooling mechanisms
Monocots vs eudicots leaf shapes
Adaptations to UV light and drought
Venus flytrap mechanics and senses
Cactus spines as modified leaves
Leaf sensitivity, clocks, and book wrap-up
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