The Secret Language of Plants: How Sound Waves Reveal Their Needs
Have you ever wondered if plants have a way of communicating their needs? Well, according to a study published in the science journal ‘Cell,’ plants do communicate through sound waves. These sounds are inaudible to the human ear, but with the help of machine learning, researchers have found a way to detect them.
The Study: Plant Sounds and Their Meaning
The study, led by Professor Lilach Haydane of Tel Aviv University, found that plants emit sounds at a frequency of 40 kHz to 80 kHz. These sounds are produced by bursting air bubbles in the vascular system of plants, which creates small waves. These sounds are like popping popcorn and are emitted when the plant is under stress, such as a lack of water or injury.
The researchers placed plants in a soundproof box and fitted microphones close to their trunks to record the sounds. They found that the plants made loud noises when there was no water and when the stem was cut. Insects, rats, and bats can hear these sounds, which can be heard from 16 feet away.
The researchers then recorded the sounds and reduced the frequency so that humans could hear them. They found that the plants made sounds in a specific way that corresponded to the type of stress they were under. For example, plants made a different sound when they were thirsty compared to when they were injured.
The Implications: Water Conservation and Precision Agriculture
One of the most significant implications of this study is its potential to conserve water in agriculture. The researchers kept plants away from water for two weeks and compared their noise through AI. They found that the noise peaked five days before the plants were completely dry. This experiment could prove beneficial for farmers in the future, as they will be able to know when the plants need water. This precision agriculture can lead to significant water conservation by irrigating the crops as per their need.
Conclusion: Listening to Plants for a Better Future
In conclusion, this study on plant sounds and their meanings opens up new possibilities in understanding the secret language of plants. With the help of machine learning, we can detect the sounds made by plants and understand their needs. This could lead to more sustainable agriculture practices and a better future for our planet.
