Touchpoint 1
Herbaria’s use and importance grows with climate change
What is it?
There are 350,000 flowering plants on earth. Many humans rely on only 12 of them to survive. Wheat corn and rice are examples. In addition, 75% of the developing world uses plant-specific medicines. Scientists are studying planets to see if more of them have benefits.
Potential message to students:
We hear about the importance of rice, wheat and corn to prevent starvation in many parts of the world. What are the chances there are more edible plants out there that could provide a lot of calories for humans? And do you think the west needs to invest more in understanding plant-based, natural medicines?
Touchpoint 2
Predatory fish use rapid color changes to coordinate attacks, scientists discover
What is it?
Large groups of fish attack schools of smaller fish for food. Why don’t these attacking fish run into each other more and get injured? Scientists think attacking fish change colors to tell other attackers it’s their turn to attack.
Potential message to students:
Do you think other animals use color to send messages to their groups while pursuing food? Many animals, both in water and on land, attack in a group. They can’t make sounds or the prey will run. Do you think these pack animals are using other means to communicate about the upcoming attack?
Touchpoint 3
Exploring links between species richness and psychological wellbeing
What is it?
Researchers have long thought that humans who spend time in nature have improved health and wellness outcomes. But a group from New Hampsshire think it may be the biodiversity we encounter on the hiking trail that is directly related to human benefits of being in nature.
Potential message to students:
Do you think this is a valid experiment? Do you think it needs to be run outside of New England also? Nature can be found in a desert, a beach area, a forest, etc. Do all of these need to be researched? Should they be researched together at the same time for better results?