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Tiny Matters
Who invented lawns? From Cretaceous grass to modern turf with That's Absurd Please Elaborate
Mar 20, 2024
Trace Dominguez and Julian Huguet, science communicators from That's Absurd, Please Elaborate, delve into the fascinating history of lawns. They take us from the Cretaceous period to the origins of modern turf, exploring the shift from utility to leisure. The duo discusses the evolutionary advantages of different grass species and challenges conventional lawn care practices, highlighting their environmental impacts. Coupled with humor, they engage listeners in a lighthearted investigation of a seemingly simple question that unearths complex societal implications.
33:35
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Quick takeaways
- Grass evolved significantly during the Cretaceous period, enabling its widespread adaptation and dominance in various ecosystems.
- The contemporary American lawn culture, resembling a status symbol, faces challenges due to its high environmental resource demands and sustainability concerns.
Deep dives
The Origins of Grass and Photosynthesis
Grass evolved significantly during the Cretaceous period, becoming prominent between 80 to 66 million years ago. Unlike most plants that utilize C3 photosynthesis, grasses employ C4 photosynthesis, allowing them to thrive in hotter, drier climates by avoiding common inefficiencies. This adaptation not only allowed grass to colonize various terrains but also to alter landscapes by easily spreading through wind. As a result, today there are around 10,000 species of grasses that play crucial roles in ecosystems and agriculture.
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