Bedazzled by flowers

Article Abstract:

A new study of snapdragons, Antirrhinum majus, suggests that the sparkling sheen of some flowers makes them more attractive to bees. By using mutants of the snapdragon, some of which had a sparkling sheen caused by the conical surfaces of epidermal cells, it is shown that bees prefer visiting sparkling magenta flowers, which are therefore more likely to reproduce than their duller neighbors.

Bees, Flowers, Plant coloration, Snapdragons

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How aggressive ant-guards assist seed-set in Acacia flowers

Article Abstract:

Scientists investigating the ant-guarding activities on Acacia trees have discovered that ants do not patrol young flowers during pollination. The ants engage in ant-guarding activity before and after the flower has gone through dehiscence. The ant is stopped from patrolling the bud by a chemical signal. Further research is required to find the chemical's source and nature.

Demographic aspects, Mutualism (Biology), Acacia, Acacia (Plant), Ant control

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'Midwives' assist dividing amoebae

Article Abstract:

Issues are presented concerning the role of 'midwife' cells in the asexual reproduction process of Entamoeba invadens. The 'midwife' cell is present in approximately one division in three.

Sexual behavior, Physiological aspects, Amoeba, Amoebas, Reproduction, Asexual, Asexual reproduction

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