Plants

Animals

Alien species fly on the wings of ducks and other waterbirds

Ducks, geese and other waterbirds can transport nonnative species and help alien invaders establish themselves.

Plants

Single gene influences a petunia’s primary pollinator

Mutations on a single gene determine how much ultraviolet light a petunia flower absorbs, and in turn, which animal pollinates the flower.

Plants

Pretty flower uses dead arthropods to lure protectors

A sticky columbine from California lures arthropods to their death to lure protectors to the plant, a new study suggests.

Life

DNA doubled in conifer ancestors

The genomes of conifers — pine, cypress and yew trees — doubled twice in the distant past.

Plants

Conifer ancestors had a double dose of DNA

The genomes of conifers — pine, cypress and yew trees — doubled twice in the distant past.

Plants

Roses rigged with electrical circuitry

Bioelectric molecules can form wires and conduct electricity in cut roses, researchers find.

Life

Many Amazon trees endangered

Large numbers of Amazon tree species are threatened by deforestation.

Plants

Genetic battle of the sexes plays out in cukes and melons

Genetics reveals new approach to preventing inbred seeds and encouraging more fruitful crops.

Plants

Ancient gardeners saved the gourd

Domestication might have helped early vine plants like pumpkin survive after seed-dispersing megafauna went extinct.

Plants

Ancient gardeners saved the gourd

Domestication might have helped early vine plants like pumpkin survive after seed-dispersing megafauna went extinct.

Plants

Marsh grass masquerades as a native species

The abundant cordgrass found in South American marshes may actually have invaded the region more than two centuries ago, a new study concludes.

Climate

Climate change could shift New England’s fall foliage

Climate change could make for earlier or later fall color, depending on where you live in New England.