Survival of the Savvy: Plant Math & Masquerades

About this episode

Zoë Schlanger discusses the incredible survival strategies of plants, including their unique adaptations and potential sentience.

Plants are just as alive as any animal-- and they've developed incredible survival strategies. Zoë Schlanger gives us an insider's look on some of the most unique adaptations in the wild world of plants. Far beyond just leaning into the light, these plants don disguises, train themselves into toxicity, and possibly even count. Plants are alive, but are they sentient? Guest: Zoë Schlanger, author of "The Light Eaters" and journalist covering health, science, and the environment. (0:00) Meet Zoë Schlanger (6:18) Pothos & Azolla (16:08) Acacia Tannins (21:02) Venus Flytrap Math (22:21) Dodder Vine Predation (28:50) Boquila, the Mimic (40:04) Consciousness & Communication

People in this episode

Guest: Zoë Schlanger

Topics covered

• plant adaptations
• survival strategies
• sentience in plants
• toxicity
• mimicry
• plant communication

Keywords

• plant math
• masquerades
• survival of the fittest
• Venus Flytrap
• Dodder Vine
• Boquila
• Acacia Tannins

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Light Eaters

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