The Hidden Powers of Leaves
Summary
Host Mark Stephen discusses the biology and evolutionary history of leaves with Professor Jonathan Silvertown, author of *Nature's Magicians*. They explore why leaves change color in autumn, the ancient origins of photosynthesis, and how leaves drive global carbon cycling. The conversation also covers plant defense mechanisms, the inefficiency of photosynthesis compared to solar panels, and Silvertown’s critique of the "wood wide web" myth.
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