The Secret Sounds of Stressed Plants
TL;DR
Researchers have recorded the sounds made by plants in response to stresses like dehydration or a cut, finding that the sounds correspond with the type of stress the plant is under. The sounds are a byproduct of cavitation, when tiny bubbles burst and produce mini-shock waves inside the plant’s vascular system. The plants did not air their grievances randomly but rather made specific complaints that matched up with the type of stresses they were under. The sounds fall within the hearing range of other animals, like mice and moths, and there is the question of whether other plants could be listening in to their neighbors’ drama.
- This Is What It Sounds Like When Plants Cry The New York Times
- Plants aren't silent. They make clicking sounds, a study finds CNN
- Plants emit ultrasonic sounds in rapid bursts when stressed, scientists say The Guardian
- Plants shriek with high pitched ultrasonic clicks when stressed: study Business Insider
- Plants may 'cry out' when stressed, scientists' recordings suggest The Times
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