Ologies with Alie Ward Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) with Nathalie Nagalingum
Feb 16, 2022
Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum, a renowned botanist and cycadologist, takes us on a thrilling journey into the world of cycads, these ancient plants that have survived for over 270 million years. She reveals the bizarre allure of cycads and the dark side of their appeal, including poaching and conservation efforts. Listeners will discover unique ecological relationships, the challenges of academic writing, and even tips for overcoming procrastination. With a touch of humor, Nathalie shares her passion for protecting these fascinating gymnosperms that are both beautiful and endangered.
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Cycad Introduction
- Alie Ward learned about cycads from Dr. Nagalingum.
- She compares cycads' appearance to a pineapple with a palm tree hat.
Slow Growth
- Cycads grow incredibly slowly, taking a year for seed germination and months for the first leaf.
- A knee-high cycad could be 10 years old, while some reach 3 meters.
Antarctic Cycads
- Dr. Nagalingum's Antarctic research revealed lush, diverse forests existed there during the Cretaceous period.
- This included cycads, ferns, conifers, and dinosaurs with large eye sockets for seeing in the dark.