Alt: Plants adaptation

Desert Dwellers: Succulents and Xerophytes

Deserts are the most inhospitable environments to consider when picking a difficult place for plants to grow. Anyone who grows plants knows that water is the most important ingredient in the recipe for success, and in its absence, most plants will die out. However, a handful of plants have found ingenious ways to thrive in places where most of their peers would stand no chance. They can be divided into two main categories based on how they deal with the challenge.

Succulents, such as cacti and aloe vera, found a way around this puzzling problem by refining how they store water. A combination of stems and fleshy leaves enables them to store large quantities, so they survive through lengthy periods of drought. On the other hand, Xerophyte plants focus mainly on water retention by minimising the effects of transpiration. Some of the most ingenious plans even have a thick waxy coating covering their leaves to reduce heat absorption and reflect sunlight.

These are the five main adaptations found in plants that thrive in the desert:

• Fleshy leaves and stems to utilise water efficiently.
• Reduced leaf surfaces to minimise water loss through transpiration.
• Thick waxy cuticles on leaves reduce water loss, and reflective surfaces deflect sunlight.
• Deep root systems tap into underground water sources to access moisture.
• Bloom at night to reduce water loss through transpiration.

Arctic Pioneers: Adaptations in the Tundra

Heat is not the only challenge that plants need to overcome if they are to thrive against the odds and survive the most inhospitable environments. Plants in tundra have to deal with a combination of short growing season and extreme cold, and they have more than a few aces up their sleeves. Just like people, plans are stronger together, and some have adapted to create colonies of cushion plans. Instead of growing up products, they huddle together and cover large surfaces on the soil.

The adaptation is useful because creating a microclimate protects them from low temperatures and wins. A shallow root system effectively extracts nutrients from an otherwise thin layer of soil that barely covers the permafrost. Reducing heat and water loss is also paramount to survival, so some plans have developed fine hairs on their leaves. These adaptations allow plants to survive where other living creatures stand no chance.

Mangroves: Conquering the Coastal Challenges

Mangroves have spent much time in the spotlight in recent years because of their uncanny ability to store carbon. They are also amazing due to their ability to survive in harsh coastal environments and deal with tidal fluctuations, high salinity, and soils lacking oxygen. Stilt roots have emerged as the chief adaptation, as they firmly lock the mangroves in place and grant superior stability. These plans are also capable of excreting the excess salt they inadvertently absorb from the salty waters.

Nature has always been a source of inspiration for people when confronted with seemingly crushing odds. Online players know that the proverbial house edge will ensure the casino’s success at their expense, at least in the long run. Getting creative and taking advantage of anything that can help you level the playing field is essential to survive. Like the plants that thrive against the odds, free spins no deposit required keep your winnings UK when playing at licensed casinos. These bonuses will keep you afloat by boosting the bankroll, so it pays off to take advantage of them whenever possible.

Alpine Survivors: Life at High Altitudes

The alpine environments are characterised by high altitudes and extreme temperature fluctuations. They are not the best place for plants to grow, but these resilient life forms have found a way to succeed. Those who go on lengthy hikes in the wilderness will be pleasantly surprised to discover that alpine plants do just fine despite the harsh conditions. The mix of abilities and strategies evolved over thousands of years enables them to survive in such landscapes.

Anthocyanins are a chemical compound that these plants produce to protect themselves against UV radiation. These substances are incredibly beneficial to human beings, and they can improve cognition and neural protection, according to the latest anthocyanins studies. Due to the vastness of the alpine landscape and reduced competition, plans frequently prioritise reproduction. As a result, despite the short growing season, alpine plants cover vast areas in colourful blooms.

These are the five most important adaptations found in alpine plants.

• Create microclimates by growing close together to provide shelter from the wind.
• Adaptations to efficiently absorb minerals from thin mountain soils.
• Dwarfed growth forms to optimise resource use in nutrient-poor soils.
• Seeds with extended dormancy periods allow them to wait for the right conditions.
• Specialised root systems to access essential nutrients in the challenging alpine soils.

Halophytes: Flourishing in Salty Soils

Another category of plants that must deal with extreme temperatures is Halophytes, which thrive in high salt conditions. Instead of being killed by this substance that usually hurts regular plants, these resilient organisms thrive. They have developed an original way of dealing with excess salt, such as depositing salt in the leaves before shedding them. It is more common for plants to excrete excess salt through specially developed structures that mitigate toxicity.

Halophytes are not deterred by the wide fluctuations in soil salinity, as they have developed ways to use water efficiently. This happens mostly in coastal areas, where the influence of seas and oceans is decisive. However, similar adaptations have been noticed in plants that live in salt flats, which are inhospitable for most life forms. It took millions of years for them to accomplish these incredible deeds, but today, they feel right at home in this harsh environment.

In addition, we also can check out the main adaptations of plants in the toughest environments on Earth:

Conclusion

It’s impossible not to be impressed by the uncanny ability of plans to adapt and even thrive in harsh environments. The desert’s blazing sun, the tundras’ blistering cold, or the mangroves’ brackish waters are no match for the toughest plans. The adaptations and strategies developed over millions of years have served them well in conquering these inhospitable places. Their example inspires people, especially today, when we struggle to find solutions to address climate change.

The post Thriving Against the Odds: How Plants Adapt to Harsh Environments appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

Rarest and Most Useful Plants

The Yew Tree (Taxus baccata)

While the Yew tree is not exceptionally rare, one of its components, paclitaxel (commonly known as Taxol), is incredibly valuable. This compound, found in the bark of the Yew tree, is used as a chemotherapy drug for treating various cancers. Harvesting the bark, however, can be fatal to the tree. Consequently, researchers have developed methods to synthesize paclitaxel, reducing the need for bark extraction and preserving these vital trees.

The Corpse Flower (Rafflesia arnoldii)

The Corpse Flower is not only one of the rarest plants globally, but it also produces the largest individual flower. Found in the rainforests of Indonesia, this parasitic plant emits a foul odor, akin to rotting meat, to attract flies for pollination. Although it lacks obvious practical applications, the Corpse Flower has generated significant interest in the scientific community for its unique parasitic nature and the ecological implications of its existence.

The Dragon’s Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari)

Native to the Socotra Archipelago in Yemen, the Dragon’s Blood Tree is known for its distinctive shape and the red resin it produces, referred to as “dragon’s blood.” This resin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, dye production, and as a varnish. The tree’s unique appearance and the numerous applications of its resin make it an invaluable natural resource and a fascinating subject of study.

Rare Plants and Online Casinos – An Unlikely Connection

The world of new online casinos may seem far removed from the realm of rare plants, but the two spheres have found common ground in the realm of advertising and marketing. As the online gaming industry continues to grow, casinos seek innovative ways to attract players and distinguish themselves from competitors. One such approach is to incorporate rare and unique plants in their promotional campaigns, drawing on the allure of these natural wonders to captivate audiences and create memorable brand identities.

For example, GreenLuck Casino, a new online gaming platform, has successfully integrated the mysterious allure of the Corpse Flower into its advertising campaign. The casino’s tagline, “Discover a world of rare and extraordinary rewards,” invites players to explore the platform, where they can find games inspired by the Corpse Flower and other rare plants. The campaign has generated considerable interest and attracted a sizable player base, eager to experience the unique offerings of GreenLuck Casino.

Another new online casino, OasisGamble, has embraced the Dragon’s Blood Tree’s mystique in its marketing efforts. The casino’s logo features the iconic tree, and its promotional materials emphasize the tree’s legendary status and the valuable properties of its resin. OasisGamble’s campaign invites players to “Uncover ancient secrets and hidden treasures,” evoking the sense of adventure and discovery associated with the Dragon’s Blood Tree. This approach has proven successful, as the casino has experienced significant growth in its player base and industry recognition.

The world is home to an incredible array of rare and useful plants, each with its unique properties and potential applications. These plants not only hold great value in their respective fields but also serve as sources of inspiration for various industries, including new online casinos. By incorporating these extraordinary plants into their marketing campaigns, online casinos are able to create captivating brand identities and attract players eager to explore their unique offerings.

This unexpected connection between rare plants and online casinos also serves to raise awareness about these remarkable species and the importance of their conservation. As more people become familiar with these plants through their association with popular gaming platforms, there is an increased likelihood of fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world and the need to protect these invaluable resources.

Ultimately, the relationship between the rarest and most useful plants in the world and new online casinos demonstrates the far-reaching influence and potential of these natural wonders. As we continue to uncover and understand the myriad applications of these extraordinary plants, we are reminded of the importance of preserving the rich biodiversity of our planet and the countless benefits it has to offer.

In an age where the environment and conservation efforts are becoming increasingly crucial, the creative integration of rare plants into various industries, including the online gaming sector, can serve as a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of our world. By celebrating and harnessing the power of these natural gems, we can encourage a more sustainable and compassionate future, where the inherent value of the world’s rarest and most useful plants is recognized and preserved for generations to come.

The post Nature’s Hidden Gems: The Rarest and Most Useful Plants in the World and Their Unexpected Connection to Online Casinos appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

Advertising and Rare Animals – A Winning Combination

In the world of advertising, creativity and novelty are essential ingredients in generating consumer interest. One way to achieve this is by featuring rare and captivating animals, as they tend to evoke a sense of awe and wonder in audiences. This, in turn, creates a memorable impression that lingers long after the advertisement has been viewed. By utilizing the captivating allure of these animals, marketers can deliver powerful messages that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.

For example, a well-known electronics brand successfully integrated the rare and elusive snow leopard in a campaign for their latest smartphone. By showcasing the animal’s beauty and agility in its natural habitat, the advertisement subtly conveyed the message that the smartphone was similarly sleek and powerful. This proved to be a successful marketing strategy, as the campaign generated significant interest in the product and ultimately led to increased sales.

In another instance, a luxury car manufacturer employed the use of a critically endangered Amur leopard in an advertisement for their latest model. The striking image of the leopard, juxtaposed against the sleek design of the car, created a lasting impression on viewers, who were left with a sense of the vehicle’s exclusivity and desirability. This campaign was also met with great success, as it attracted a substantial amount of attention and boosted sales for the brand.

New Online Casinos and Rare Animal Campaigns

New online casinos, in particular, have adopted this strategy in recent years, as they strive to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive industry. By featuring rare animals in their advertising campaigns, these casinos not only create a unique brand identity but also foster a sense of excitement and intrigue that appeals to potential customers.

One such online casino, ExoticSpins, has garnered considerable attention with its recent campaign featuring the critically endangered Javan rhinoceros. The advertisement presents the rhino amidst a lush jungle setting, with a tagline that reads, “Discover a world of rare and exciting experiences at ExoticSpins.” The campaign cleverly links the thrill of playing at an online casino with the excitement of encountering one of the world’s rarest animals. This innovative approach has not only boosted the casino’s online presence but has also drawn in a significant number of new players.

In another example, WildWagers Casino launched a successful advertising campaign that featured the endangered Vaquita, a small and rare porpoise species native to the Gulf of California. The campaign’s tagline, “Dive into a sea of possibilities,” connected the elusive nature of the Vaquita with the thrilling opportunities offered by the casino. The advertisement generated a great deal of interest, with many users praising the casino for its unique approach and its commitment to raising awareness about the plight of the Vaquita.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of rare and exotic animals in advertising campaigns has proven to be an effective marketing strategy for numerous brands, including new online casinos. By capitalizing on the natural curiosity and fascination that these creatures inspire, marketers are able to create memorable and impactful advertisements that resonate with their target audience. Furthermore, these campaigns not only promote the products and services on offer but also help to raise awareness about the conservation of these unique species. As such, these innovative campaigns represent a win-win situation for both the advertisers and the rare animals themselves.

It is important to note, however, that the ethical implications of using endangered animals in advertising campaigns must be carefully considered. Marketers should ensure that the animals featured in their campaigns are not exploited or harmed in any way, and that they adhere to relevant animal welfare guidelines. Additionally, by partnering with conservation organizations or donating a portion of their profits to support the preservation of these rare species, companies can demonstrate their commitment to conservation and further enhance their brand image.

In the ever-competitive world of advertising, featuring the world’s rarest animals has provided a unique and captivating edge for various industries, including online casinos. By creating powerful and memorable ad campaigns, these businesses are not only able to stand out from their competitors but also contribute to raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility for the conservation of these precious species. Ultimately, these innovative advertising strategies have the potential to make a lasting impact on both the target audience and the world at large, paving the way for a more sustainable and compassionate future.

The post Wildly Successful: Innovative Advertising Campaigns Featuring the World’s Rarest Animals appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

The Shoebill is a waterbird that is unmistakable due to its unique “shoe-shaped” bill. This appearance may recall the origin of birds from dinosaurs. The species is found in nine African countries and has a large range, but is confined to small populations in a few wetland locations.

The Kitoglav was known to the ancient Egyptians and Arabs. But it wasn’t classified until the 19th century, when living specimens were brought to Europe. John Gould described the species in 1850, calling it Balaeniceps rex. The name ‘Balaenoptera’ comes from Latin words for “whale” and “head”, which are abbreviated to -ceps in compound words. The Arabs call this bird abu markub, meaning “shoe”.

The bird’s notable feature is its beak- which resembles a boot in color and markings. It’s huge, ending with a sharp curved hook that helps it eat. The mandibles have sharp edges that help them grasp prey. Their neck is shorter and thicker than other tall-legged water fowl such as cranes, herons, and spoonbills. They have big eyes that are either yellowish or greyish white in color. Their legs are long and black. They also have very long fingers that are completely separated without webbing

This species is limited to Africa and lives in the east-central side of the continent.

This species is most abundant in the Western Nile subregion and nearby parts of southern Sudan. Isolated cases of shoebill settlement have been reported in Kenya, northern Cameroon, southwestern Ethiopia and Malawi. Reports of strays have surfaced in the Okavango and upper Congo basins. This means that Shoebill is a bird that does not migrate often. It moves based on changes in its habitat, food availability, and human disturbance.

Kitoglavs generally prefers freshwater swamps, or vast, dense swamps with many wetlands. The shoebill stork needs a lot of floating plants in order to thrive in deep water areas. Besides an altered water chemistry, these fish are most often found near the surface of poorly oxygenated waters.

The bulk of carnivorous fish diet comes from wetland vertebrates. It is not known how they feed on invertebrates.

The shoebill’s huge beak and wide mouth means it can catch larger prey than other wading birds. In Bangweulu, its main food is African catfish and water snakes, which the parents feed to their chicks.

The main tactics used by shoebills are to stand and wait and wander slowly. When a prey item has been located, the bird’s head and neck quickly sway when inflating their pouch, sending the bird askew. Afterwards, the shoebill should regain balance by opening their wings.

Particles of vegetation fall into the beak, as well as some prey. Shoebills shake their heads from side to side in order to get rid of any green matter. The prey is usually decapitated before swallowing. A large beak can also be used to grab mud at the bottom of a pond to extract fish hiding in holes.

No matter how many times you see shoe heads in a group, this is not a sign of them being sociable. It’s only when food starts to run low that they will feed next to each other. Male and female of the same species usually forage on opposite sides of their territory. Contrary to popular belief, some birds have the ability to fly wherever they want and don’t just fly back and forth across one place.

Kitoglavs do not appear to be scared or threatened by people. Researchers have been able to get much closer than 2m from their nesting area and the birds did not seem hostile towards them, simply staring at them.

When shoeheads soar, they take advantage of thermals (a mass of rising air), and are also seen hovering over their territory during the day. In flight, the birds’s neck retracts with a cawing sound. They are usually silent while on the ground, but they often make noise with their beaks when at full length. Adults will welcome each other into their nests and chicks make sounds while they play with their beaks. Adults also make noises like a “moo”. Chicks will even make hiccup-like noises when they are hungry.

Shoebills rely on sight and hearing to hunt. In order to have a good view of the surroundings, shoebills hold their heads and beaks vertically downwards towards their chest. Kitoglav’s wings are held evenly to the ground while taking off and sometimes hinders takeoff. This is because it flies with its neck withdrawn in a penguin like form and its frequency is around 150 kicks per minute. These make it one of the slowest flying birds out of all, with exception of larger storks that have a slower flapping speed so they don. Bird’s flight consists of alternating cycles of flapping and sliding. They live nearly 36 years in the wild.

Kitoglavy birds have an average territory size of about 1km², and are very territorial during the breeding season. They’ll defend their nest from predators, competitors, or anyone else who may disrupt them.

The next seems to be located on a small island or on a mass of floating algae. The same type of material such as grass is woven onto the ground to form a building about 1 meter in diameter. One to three eggs are typically laid. However, only one chick lives to fly the coop by the end of their time in their egg. The incubation period is about 30 days.

Kitoglavs are monogamous birds and the pair of parents share all aspects of family life. They build a nest, incubate the eggs and raise their chicks cooperatively. One way they keep cool is to let a beak full of water run over their clutch. Additionally, they lay patches of blades of grass around the eggs and turn them over with their paws or beak.

Several predators prey on adult shoebills. These include large birds of prey like hawks, falcons, and kites. However, the most dangerous enemies are crocodiles which inhabit African swamps in large numbers. Chicks and eggs are vulnerable to predators, but this is rare because the chicks and their mothers protect each other fiercely, building nests in places where these predators have none of the easy access they need.

The most threatening enemies of the shoebill are people who catch and eat them. In addition, indigenous people can earn large sums of money by selling these birds to zoos. Threats to the survival of Kitoglav include: changes in the environment brought about by human hunters, local tribesmen hunting them for capture, and cultural taboos preventing their natural reproduction.

The post Shoebill appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

The root system of these plants is superficial. The maximum depth to which the roots reach is about half a meter. More often they go only 5-10 cm deep. The thin, cord-like shoots gradually become woody. As they grow, the bark cracks. The stems curl and intertwine.

From the base to the top, the shoots are densely foliated. The large leaf blades are either entire or split into lobes. Leaves vary in color from pale to bright green. Slightly pubescent leaves sit on long petioles, arranged in turns to form a continuous carpet.

Kirkazon blooms in early summer. The original flowers, consisting of a tube and a wide bend, hide in the axils of the leaves. The shape of the flowers evokes associations with a smoking pipe or saxophone. The perianth is intricately colored – a bright spotted pattern runs along the grayish background. The flowers smell peculiar, attracting flies, beetles and mosquitoes.

It is the aroma that lures the insect into the trap. The hairs inside the tube turn into an insurmountable barrier. In search of an exit, the “captive” conducts pollination. Only when the process is complete do the hairs fall off, freeing the passage. At the same time, the anthers sprinkle the insect with a new portion of pollen, which it is sure to deliver to another flower. By the way, the fertilized flower immediately falls off. Thus, the voluntary helpers do not have to waste their efforts in vain.

The fruit of the plant is a cucumber-like capsule. When it ripens, it opens up, releasing many flat, triangular seeds.

In culture Aristolochia is used for vertical landscaping. The perennial plant beautifully braids any supports, masks structures, decorates balconies. From these lianas turn out original live tunnels and arches.

Growing
Cirsasone grows quickly. The standard annual growth of shoots is about two meters. Therefore, the plant needs a strong reliable support. Interestingly, the shoots wind it exclusively counterclockwise. Frozen stems, as well as those that exceed the height of the support, it is recommended to cut.

Aristolochia needs a place protected from winds. Sharp air currents often tear the leaf plates.

Profusely flowering liana, however, often refuses to give seeds. Therefore, vegetative propagation is adopted in culture.

To do this in May, cut cuttings from 20 cm in length. They are rooted in a sandy-peat mixture, setting at an inclination and covering with a glass vessel or polyethylene. The roots grow in 3-4 weeks. Transplanting into the open ground is recommended to postpone until next year, because the plant does not have enough strength for wintering in the street.

Horizontal offshoots are pinned to the soil also in the spring. It should be taken into account that the appearance of their own roots will have to wait at least two years.

Aristolochia is susceptible to attacks of spider mite. The small pest causes damage to the ornamentality and health of the liana. The site presents the most effective preparations and outlines methods of combating the “invader”.

The post Aristolochia or Kirkazon appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

Drosera, like other insectivorous plants, is demanding to the conditions of growth, so there can be difficulties with its home cultivation. But by following the simple recommendations outlined in the article, it is possible to provide the culture with proper care.

Botanical description
Dewdrop is an exotic predatory plant and herbaceous perennial that grows in different parts of the world, from arctic latitudes to the tropics. Its leaf has an average diameter of 1 cm and can be up to 5-7 cm long. The color is soft green or with a pronounced dark red hue. The leaves are crowned with fine hairs. They have drops of sticky secretion on them, attracting insects into a deadly trap. After all, the dewdrop is a predatory plant that gets its food not only from the soil.

It blooms in the spring and summer. During this period, the central leaves emit stems and flowers (see photo). Fruits form in August, looking like small capsules filled with seeds. When ripe, they fall to the ground and open, scattering seeds.

Although the dewdrop is a predatory plant, it does not synthesize sticky droplets throughout its reproductive period. Yes, and the dewy stem with its flower is long enough that any insect can conduct pollination without sticking.

Where it grows

Dewdrop is an exotic plant, but common enough. It can be seen in peat bogs, where it often neighbors with shrubs of the heath family. Its habitat covers all continents except Antarctica.

In the subtropics they grow throughout the year, while in temperate climates they have a distinct dormant period. Australian species have a tuberous thickening under the soil which allows the plant to survive in times of drought.

How and what the dewdrop feeds on
Dewdrop is a predator plant that feeds on insects caught in its trap. The sticky liquid produced by the flower contains the alkaloid conine, which has a paralytic effect. Insects land and the poison begins to take effect, and in 10-20 minutes the leaf completely curdles. The carnivorous shrub then releases digestive enzymes that break down the insect into its simplest substances. The digestion process takes more than one day.

Varieties and photos
Science knows more than 187 species of dewdrop, but few varieties of this predatory plant are popular. As a house flower, it is not often grown. The most famous are the following species:

Round-leaved. Widespread in temperate latitudes. Prefers peat bogs. Blossoms only in summer, the nesting bag is a single nesting box. To survive the winter, forms several buds under a layer of sphagnum moss. Grows to a height of 20 cm.
Capa. Quickly adapts to any conditions. Although dewberry is a perennial predatory plant and sometimes grows all year long, but its height does not exceed 12 cm. It is distinguished by the arrangement of the leaves, placed in a tight rosette, with the inevitable scarlet “tentacle”. The peduncles grow up to 20 cm. The inflorescences are bright pink.
English. Grows to 25 cm. Leaves are arranged in elongated petioles. Occurs in the temperate zone.
Alicia. A subtropical species found in southern Africa. Features sensitive hairy leaves.
Burmana. Found in Southeast Asia and Australia. It has a short stem, dense root rosette, and flowers with the ability to self-pollinate. Able to devour prey in seconds, leaving only softened chitin.
Peculiarities of home care

Dewdrop is the only predatory plant, the cultivation of which can be recommended to beginners, largely because of its unpretentiousness. However, we recommend observing temperature and light requirements.

Lighting
The culture does not like when direct sunlight falls on it, but, despite this, it needs a lot of light. It is desirable to place the pot on a window sill, where the light will be diffused. In winter, the light day should be at least 8 hours, and in summer it should last about 14 hours. Therefore, in cold months, it is recommended to choose a window located on the southern side of the house. And during the active growth phase, windows facing west or east will do better.

In summer, the dewberry can be put out into the fresh air, having previously equipped an area where it will be protected from direct sunlight.

Temperature regime
The air temperature in the room where the pot with the plant is located should fluctuate around +18 … +23 ° C. However, some species may prefer a different temperature – it is better to consult before buying. The main condition – in the dormancy period, the temperature should not exceed +14 ° C.

Humidity and watering
Dewdrop is a plant that does not require moisture. Even in summer, it is enough to water once every three days. In winter, watering is required once a week. It is important to monitor the substrate – its middle part should always be moist. When watering, it is recommended to sprinkle the soil.

The post The dewclaw plant appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

People who have found this flower, enjoy the fragrance of the amazing plant is unlikely to succeed, because the opened bud has a far unpleasant smell. In turn, such a fragrance is very liked by forest flies, they fly to it like bees to honey and, getting bogged down in the inflorescence, contribute to the pollination of the flower.

Rafflesia belongs to the parasitic flowering plants of the Rafflesia family, and numbers over 30 species. It grows only on the territory of Southeast Asia: mainly the islands of Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, the Philippines and the Malacca Peninsula. Representatives of this family can be found only in the jungle, the area of which is rapidly decreasing due to massive deforestation of tropical forests, and therefore all species are endangered.

These amazing plants are remarkable primarily because the flowers of some species, such as Rafflesia Arnold, weigh from eight to ten kilograms and have a record size in diameter – about a meter, being the widest flower on earth. It is true that not all species of this flower possess such a size. There is another type of plant, the flowers of which are also considered large – Patma with a diameter of the inflorescence of 30 cm. But the size of such representatives of the Rafflesia family as Sapriya and Rhizanthes ranges from 10 to 20 cm.

The family itself was named after Thomas Stamford Raffles, the leader of an expedition to the island of Sumatra, who also became famous for founding Singapore. But the first plant found was Arnold’s Rafflesia – it got its name thanks to Joseph Arnold, who participated in the same expedition.

It is interesting that locals called this plant “lotus flower”, “corpse lily”, “scavenger flower”, “dead lotus” and used it as a medicine: women drank the extract from the buds to restore the figure after childbirth, and men used the flowers of Rafflesia to enhance potency.

The plant discovered by Joseph Arnold was small for its species, but even then it was impressive: its diameter was about ninety centimeters, and it weighed no more than six kilograms. Botanists later found larger specimens. The maximum diameter of the flower, which was recorded by scientists, was 106.7 cm – and at the moment it is the widest detected flower of our planet.

Biological characteristics of the plant
Despite the fact that in appearance Rafflesia Arnoldi strongly resembles a huge flower, in fact it is not, because being a parasitic plant, it does not need photosynthesis, and therefore leaves, stems and roots, which actively participate in this process, the largest flower in the world does not have.

Rafflesia Arnoldi needs nutrients for its full development, it gets them by feeding on the sap of its “host” with the help of sucking roots. Therefore, the “host” on which the parasite will live for several years, it chooses very carefully and treats it with care, without causing much harm.

As a “host” Rafflesia suits only that type of plants, the juices of which roots are able to awaken its seeds. Then the “host plant” will determine the direction of growth of the suckers, by which the parasite will take the substances it needs.

The largest flower in the world prefers to grow on a liana of the cissus genus or on trees, part of the root system of which protruded to the surface. Once on these plants, the seeds of Rafflesia release a thin thread and penetrate under the bark of the “host” without hurting him in any way.

Rafflesia life
After Rafflesia seeds with the help of suction roots penetrate into the liana, they do not show themselves in any way for a year and a half (the seeds that could not penetrate into the tree bark eventually die off).

After eighteen months, a bud-like thickening begins to form on the roots or stem of the “host”. When the growth reaches the size of a child’s fist, it opens – a bud with brick-red petals appears. Usually it takes at least three years for this process of Rafflesia arnoldi.

It takes from nine to eighteen months for the bud to mature and transform into a flower. The unfurled flower of Rafflesia Arnold has five petals that are about 3 cm thick and 45 cm long.

These petals are usually red or brown in color and covered with a huge number of white warty growths and spots. Despite the long maturation, the flower itself does not live more than four days, after which it begins to decompose, and Rafflesia Arnold fairly soon transformed into a black shapeless mass.

The post Rafflesia Arnoldi – the largest flower in the world appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.

Botanical Description
The dragon tree is a relict evergreen tropical plant. According to some scientists, it is capable of living for up to 6000 years or more. The oldest discovered specimen is about 3,000 years old.

The trunks of the dracaena grow to a height of 20-25 meters. Being capable of secondary growth in width, they periodically thicken. The diameter of the underside of mature trees can exceed 4 m. The surface of trunks is lumpy, as if composed of numerous vertical folds, covered with grayish-brown bark. When cut, dracenas secrete a transparent resinous sap, which turns bright red after a few seconds. This is due to the oxidation in air of the pigments it contains: dracocarmine and dracorubine. The sap is produced by trees over several hundred years old. Up to this age, the dracaena is considered young.

The root system is branched, with roots spreading far apart near the surface soil layer. The wood of the plant is porous, without annual rings, and over time, huge cavities form in many old trees.

Branching of trunks occurs at a height of several meters. Numerous thick shoots grow upward, topped with a dense cap of stiff, sword-shaped leaves, which are dark green or glaucous. Plates are about 40-50 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The surface is leathery, shiny, divided by longitudinal veins. Due to their stiffness and sharp tips, the leaves resemble giant needles. On the branches they are arranged in dense tufts, with the tips pointing upward. Ornamented shoots form wide umbrella-like crowns with a regular round shape. But they can be admired only from a great height. An adult tree from afar looks like a giant mushroom with a thick barky stalk and a shaggy hairy cap.

Dracaenas rarely flower. Their buds are fairly large, white or purple and have 4- to 6-overlapping inflorescences.

The legend
In the homeland of the tree about its origin, there are several legends. According to one of them, the dracaena was born after the death of the mighty ancient dragon. These huge wise creatures possessed a magical blood that allowed them to live for several thousand years. It cured of all diseases and healed wounds instantly. People began to kill dragons, but obtained thus miraculous tool immediately lost power. The blood of the last severely wounded dragon was soaked into the ground. Trees grew in the place. Their trunks absorbed the blood. This allowed the humans to finally enjoy the gift of life they had long hunted for.

The drops of sap that are released when the trunks are damaged are so frighteningly similar to blood that in the Middle Ages these trees were seriously considered semi-animals.

Proliferation
The dragon tree was first discovered by European travelers on the islands of Socotra and Tenerife in the early 15th century. The natives considered them sacred. Several species of dracaena inhabit the tropical belt, savannahs of the African continent, Southeast Asia, and central South America.

Uses
The ancient Indians and the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, the Guanches especially valued the red sap of the dragon tree and attributed to it miraculous powers. In ancient times it was used for embalming the bodies of the dead and was used to dress serious wounds and purulent ulcers.

In medicine.
For medicinal purposes, the sap of the draconian dracena is used. Found in its composition:

betaine,
borneol,
dipentene,
dinosterol,
Lignans and other useful substances.

Pharmacological properties are similar to aloe juice. It has anti-inflammatory, styptic, antiseptic, antiviral, regenerating, analgesic effect, improves immunity, eliminates physical fatigue.

The sap is collected after cutting the bark from the trunks. After processing, raw material hardens, taking the form of red glass. The mass is ground into a powder or cut into pieces.

The official pharmacopoeia does not list dragonwood as a medicinal plant. But it is unusually popular in homeopathy and folk medicine. Sap extract is part of dietary supplements, various potions to treat thrombosis, gynecological, dermatological diseases, getting rid of toothache, stomatitis, gingivitis, problems with male potency.

The post Dragon Tree appeared first on Prof As-Behavior of Ani.