Comedian Ed Byrne showcases his surprising horticultural knowledge as the hosts debate about plants, strawberries, and invasive species. They also discuss encounters with grey squirrels and defend mosquitoes. The episode is filled with humor and fascinating insights into the world of gardening.
Plants exhibit remarkable adaptability and regenerative abilities, contrasting with animals.
Insects like mosquitoes and flies play essential roles in pollination and ecological balance, challenging common misconceptions.
Deep dives
The Definition of Plants: Closer to Animals Than Expected
Plant scientist Jane Langdale and horticultural comedian Ed Byrne discuss the intricate definition of plants, revealing that plants are not considered animals. Byrne humorously reflects on his misunderstanding of fungi, realizing their distinction from plants. The conversation unveils the surprising fact that fungi are more closely related to animals than plants, reshaping conventional perceptions of plant classifications.
Plants' Adaptability and Phototropism: Nature's Resilient Organisms
The discussion delves into plants' remarkable adaptability, contrasting them with animals in their regenerative abilities. Plants possess unique growth responses to light and gravity, adjusting their growth program accordingly. The concept of phototropism is highlighted, showcasing how plants turn into natural compasses, aiding navigation with their directional growth. The conversation emphasizes plants' plasticity and resilience in facing environmental challenges.
The Role of Insects in Pollination: Mosquitoes and Flies as Vital Pollinators
Entomologist Erica McAllister highlights the essential role of mosquitoes and flies in pollination, debunking misconceptions about their significance. The conversation shifts to debates over mosquitoes' ability to transmit diseases and the intricate birthing process of specific fly species. The anecdotal exchange sheds light on the critical yet often overlooked contributions of insects, such as flies, to pollination and ecological balance.
Robin Ince and Brian Cox dig into the secret lives of plants to discover that there’s more going on in your average garden than you might at first think. They hear why trees are better than humans at re-growing broken bits, while comedian Ed Byrne reveals a surprising understanding of horticulture, despite dropping out of his university degree early. And while they’re still no closer to discovering if they’re alive or dead, the team find a new debate to have about strawberries, as they argue with forensic botanist Dr Mark Spencer over whether they should be classified as an invasive species. But what about other common pests? Phill Jupitus tells them about an intimate encounter with grey squirrel, and entomologist Erica McAllister puts up a strong defence of the mosquito, claiming they don’t deserve such a bad reputation.
New episodes will be released on Wednesdays. If you’re in the UK, listen to the full series on BBC Sounds: bbc.in/3K3JzyF
Producer: Marijke Peters
Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem
Episodes featured:
Series 11: What’s the Point of Plants?
Series 18: Invasion!
Series 23: Bats v Flies
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