Butterflies and moths collect so much static electricity while in flight that pollen grains from flowers can be pulled across air gaps of several millimetres or centimetres. The finding, published recently in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, suggests this likely increases their efficiency and effectiveness as pollinators. The study opens the door to […] Read more

Static electricity attracts pollen to insects
Science Notes: Butterflies, moths pull pollen to them without touching plants

Crop biological clocks show spraying success affected by time of day
Researchers found that biological processes in plants can determine spray success
The most efficient use of herbicides depends on their timing relating to weather – but it also may depend on the biological clocks of the plants being sprayed. Research at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom showed that the amount of herbicide needed to affect a plant varied by time of day. “This […] Read more