Recently, entomologists Consuelo De Moraes Ph.D. and Dr. Mark Mescher have proof that plant roots forage through soil
for nutrients. With time-lapse photography, they have documented root tentacle movement
in search of the richest surrounding soil. That is not the best part. The most
exciting discovery is that plants emit SOS chemistry when stressed to attract
bugs that will attack their stressors. We smell this green leaf volatile
chemical odor and perceive it as perfume.
The most captivating botanical
thus far is the nocturnal tobacco plant that blooms at dusk. Its growth is initiated
by wildfire. Its secret chemical weapon to poison bugs that feed on its leaves
is nicotine. Its leaves release a scent to attract bugs that eat the
caterpillars that feed on it; a fascinating finding.
Plants do not have brains,
but they have a natural intelligent sense that has sustained them since earth
came into existence.
For further reading, see: The
theory of Gene Perception and Response
and the dodder plant
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