What can we learn from the sensitive plant about how to modify shape and protect from biotic or abiotic factors? Mimosa pudica has the ability to move its leaves in response to insects, herbivory, heat, light, and rain. This strategy is hypothesized to help protect the leaves and minimize damage. …

How does bark protect from the elements and create conditions conducive to life? The outer covering of trees is crucial to their survival in a variety of drastically different habitats from the alpine forest to the desert. The shape, texture, and chemistry of bark is evolved to have specific functions…

How do lotus leaves stay clean (AKA protect from dirt or excess liquid)? I recently visited the Denver Botanic Gardens and saw that they have a lotus plant, so you know I had to make this video! Nelumbo nucifera is an aquatic plant with large flat leaves that float on…

What can we learn from lichens about cooperation or protection from the elements? I have been constantly fascinated by this often overlooked, yet very complex and interesting organism. It’s found in every habitat on land — from the freezing arctic to the harsh desert. In fact, lichen is an important…

What can we learn from Aspens about capturing energy in different conditions? Quaking aspens (Populus tremuloides) are found primarily in higher elevation mountain ecosystems, although they are the most widely-spread tree species in North America. …

Communities everywhere are facing immense challenges. Nature offers advice for how we can survive and adapt in the face of disaster. Cities across the globe are experiencing an increase in frequency and intensity of disasters such as wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, tsunamis, and even large-scale health crises. Response time and…

I have been bitterly aware of the climate crisis ever since I was a child. It was a dark cloud of inevitable doom that always hung above me, constantly reminding me that our beautiful home is being destroyed, and that humans are the underlying cause. When I attended UC Santa…