The needles of conifers are not simply modified leaves, but structures designed to meet specific needs. Their needle-like shape reduces the surface contact with air, thus limiting...
The characteristic smell of freshly cut grass mainly comes from a substance called cis-3-hexenal. This compound is produced when the grass blades are damaged: in...
The production of maple syrup requires very specific weather conditions: very cold winters followed by a mild spring with regular alternation of freezing and thawing. And indeed,...
Moss is a plant that resembles a small natural sponge. Its structure full of tiny holes allows it to absorb and retain water easily. Once...
Earth's gravity is a natural force that attracts all objects towards the center of the Earth. It is this force that allows lemons, as well...
Boxwoods are often subject to attacks by various parasites and diseases that can cause their leaves to turn yellow. Among the most common parasites are...
The baobab often grows in very dry regions, where rain is scarce. To cope with these periods of drought, the tree adapts by keeping a...
Algae love it when it's warm: their metabolism speeds up, and this boosts their development. Higher temperatures often mean faster growth because the internal chemical...
The phosphorescence of mushrooms primarily comes from small molecules called luciferins, which react with specific enzymes, luciferases. This chemical reaction emits a soft visible light, usually green...
When the fruit ripens, it grows and its weight gradually increases. This surplus weight exerts increasing tension on the attachment that connects the fruit to...
