EPOD - a service of USRA
The Earth Science Picture of the Day (EPOD) highlights the diverse processes and phenomena which shape our planet and our lives. EPOD will collect and archive photos, imagery, graphics, and artwork with short explanatory
captions and links exemplifying features within the Earth system. The
community is invited to contribute digital imagery, short captions and
relevant links.
Hollow Stems in Amaryllis belladonna
August 30, 2022
Menashe_Stems
Menashe_Stems2
Photographer: Menashe Davidson
menashe.davidson@gmail.com
Summary Author: Menashe Davidson
menashe.davidson@gmail.com
While in my home-garden (in Rishon LeZion, Israel), I observed the
erect hollow leafless stems of Amaryllis belladonna plant, also
known as the Amaryllis lily and the August lily. Carrying
inflorescences they bear showy funnel-shaped flowers (1st photo). I
questioned the purpose of why there are hollow stems in some plants.
Stems of course provide a transport system, mechanical support, and
a primary growth point for plant. They also improve the presentation of
the plant’s sexual organs, thereby increasing the plant's chance of
reproduction.
The common misconception was to believe that the hollow stem is solely
for nutrient or water transport. But when I cut the stem in various
heights, I learned that the hollow stem holds water only in the bottom
4 or 5 inches (12 cm) -- most of the stem contains air (2nd photo).
Scientists In University of Guelph (Ontario) studied differences in
plant stem type, and how effectively they regulate their temperature.
They found that the stem lumen (hollow portion of the stem) allows the
plant to maintain a distinct internal microclimate and in the present
of sunlight, the temperature in the lumen was slightly above that of
the ambient air. Increases in temperature encourages growth of sexual
organs in plants, which in turn helps the flower to develop quickly,
becoming more prominent to pollinators. And this effect is exactly what
I observed in Amaryllis flowers. (Below)
Menashe_Stems3
Rishon LeZion, Israel Coordinates: 31.9730, 34.7925
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