3.04.2006
Plants Turn Poisonous in Response to Ozone Threat (Stuff.co.nz)
04 March 2006
By DEBBIE JAMIESON
Food plants across the world are developing a poisonous protective layer to shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, scientists studying the effects of ozone depletion say.
The discovery has turned traditional thinking on its head, according to international experts on the environmental effects of ozone depletion gathered in Alexandra this week.
The 24 scientists are tasked with reporting changes to the ozone layer and subsequent consequences to the United Nations.
Until recently, it has been assumed that UV radiation only had a negative effect on plants – but it is now recognised that a screening pigment produced by most plants can be toxic to predators and help with disease prevention.
Now attempts are being made to harness that information to produce stronger and more natural food crops.
(More ... New Zealand, world, sport, business & entertainment news on Stuff.co.nz: Plants turn poisonous in response to ozone threat) ¶ 10:41
By DEBBIE JAMIESON
Food plants across the world are developing a poisonous protective layer to shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, scientists studying the effects of ozone depletion say.
The discovery has turned traditional thinking on its head, according to international experts on the environmental effects of ozone depletion gathered in Alexandra this week.
The 24 scientists are tasked with reporting changes to the ozone layer and subsequent consequences to the United Nations.
Until recently, it has been assumed that UV radiation only had a negative effect on plants – but it is now recognised that a screening pigment produced by most plants can be toxic to predators and help with disease prevention.
Now attempts are being made to harness that information to produce stronger and more natural food crops.
(More ... New Zealand, world, sport, business & entertainment news on Stuff.co.nz: Plants turn poisonous in response to ozone threat) ¶ 10:41
