Dispersing the seeds of life

Description

This image originally appeared as part of Northwestern's Scientific Images Contest. The contest and subsequent exhibitions are organized by Science in Society, the university's research center for science education and public engagement. Further information and opportunities to participate are available on their website. Prints and canvas editions of these Northwestern research images can also be purchased online (with the small net profit going to science education and outreach programming in the Chicago area). 2017 Third Place

Abstract

This is a photograph of a plant called Pitchers thistle that is on the brink of becoming endangered. This seed head is in its final stage of development, dispersing seeds like a dandelion. The species plays an important role in the sand dune ecosystems around the Great Lakes. Habitat destruction (by humans) and seed pillaging (by non-native weevils) are reducing the range and population of this species. Conservation biologists study the thistle and its growth cycle to inform conservation and restoration efforts for it and other endangered plants.

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