Podcast Summary
A Scientist's Passion for Ancient Cycads: Botanist Dr. Natalie Nagalingam studies endangered cycads, ancient plants with long histories, despite their critical endangerment and the challenges of preserving them.
Dr. Natalie Nagalingam, a renowned botanist and research scientist, has dedicated her career to studying ancient plants called cycads, which predate palm trees by millions of years. These plants, with their stout trunks and pinnate leaves, have a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Permian period. Despite their ancient origins, cycads are critically endangered and surrounded by drama. Dr. Nagalingam earned her PhD at the University of Melbourne and continued her research at Duke, UC Berkeley, and Harvard before returning to Australia to work at the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney. In 2017, she joined the California Academy of Arts and Sciences in San Francisco. When I met her in 2020, I was immediately drawn to her charisma and enthusiasm for her work. In our upcoming episode, she shares her passion for cycads, discussing their history, significance, and the challenges of preserving them. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation with this brilliant and endearing scientist.
Reminiscing about the unique appearance and slow growth of cycads: Cycads, ancient plants with deep green leaves and a hairy trunk, take years to reproduce and have been passed down through generations as a source of fascination and scientific study.
Cycads, ancient plants with a history dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, are endangered due to their slow growth rate. During our conversation, we reminisced about a memorable encounter before the COVID-19 pandemic, where we were introduced to these fascinating plants and their unique appearance, which resembles a pineapple wearing a palm tree as a hat. Cycads have deep green, stiff leaves, and a hairy, stumpy trunk. They take years to reproduce, with a seed's root taking a year to germinate and the plant growing only about half an inch per year. Natalie's fieldwork involves revisiting past collection sites to search for these ancient plants, which can range from small specimens to towering giants. As psychologists pass on their knowledge generationally, the study of cycads continues in an unbroken chain, shedding light on these ancient survivors and their important role in our natural world.
Using DNA analysis in paleobotany reveals new insights into ancient plants and their ecosystems: DNA analysis in paleobotany provides new insights into ancient plant species, their classification, and their ecosystems, including the discovery of lush forests in Antarctica during the Cretaceous period and the identification of dinosaur diets through fossilized cycad seeds
The field of paleobotany, which involves studying ancient plants, has evolved significantly with the use of DNA analysis. Paleobotanist Dr. Kathleen Pigg, who began her career studying ancient plants like cycads, ferns, and conifers, now uses DNA to answer questions that were previously only answerable through fossils. This molecular approach provides new insights and allows for more accurate identification and classification of ancient plant species. One fascinating discovery is that during the Cretaceous period, there were lush forests in Antarctica, with plants such as ferns, cycads, and even dinosaurs inhabiting the region. The dinosaurs from this region had large eye sockets due to the long periods of darkness, and there is evidence that they consumed cycads. Cycads are gymnosperms, which means they produce naked seeds, and their seeds are identified by their size and shape, which can vary depending on the species. The discovery of fossilized cycad seeds in dinosaur fossils provides valuable insights into their diet. Overall, the use of DNA analysis in paleobotany has opened up new avenues for research and discovery, shedding light on the ancient world in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Cycads rely on animals for seed dispersal: Cycads, immobile plants, depend on small mammals and birds for seed distribution in warm and tropical regions. Education and following interests can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career.
Cycads, large and seemingly immobile plants, have limited dispersal abilities and rely on animals for seed distribution. Studies have shown that small mammals and birds play a crucial role in spreading cycad seeds, often just a few meters away. Cycads are found in warm and tropical regions, including parts of Australia, the Pacific, the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, and Madagascar. Natalie, a scientist specializing in cycads, shares her personal journey of discovering her passion for these plants, growing up as a first-generation immigrant from Mauritius, and pursuing a doctorate in science to dedicate her career to their preservation. Her experience underscores the importance of education and following one's interests, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and impactful career.
Researching Extinct Cycad Species: Dr. Nagalingam's research on 10 extinct cycad species uses a breeding program approach to determine if samples are clones and increase population size and health. Unexpected findings include their ancient origins, human impact vulnerability, and unique reproductive challenges.
Dr. Nagalingam's research focuses on the conservation of cycads, particularly for about 10 extinct species, using a breeding program approach similar to a zoo's captive breeding program. They aim to determine if samples are clones and eventually breed them to increase population size and health. A surprising discovery was that most cycads evolved much earlier than previously thought, around 12 million years ago, which makes them vulnerable in the modern era due to human impact and climate change. One unique case is the encephalartos woodii, which is only found as male plants, making reproduction impossible. The discovery of new DNA patterns challenges previous assumptions and highlights the importance of ongoing research to understand and protect these ancient plants.
Cycads: Ancient Plants Under Threat from Poachers: Cycads, worth up to $1,000,000 for rare species, are being illegally poached and trafficked, threatening their existence in the wild. Measures like national parks with ranger patrols and all-vegan women rangers are being taken to protect these ancient plants.
Cycads, a group of ancient plants, are being poached and trafficked at alarming rates due to their high value in the black market. Some collectors are willing to go to great lengths, including dynamiting cliff faces and digging up specific species deeply hidden in botanic gardens, to obtain every single one of the approximately 350 known species. The value of these plants can reach up to $1,000,000 for rare species, making them more valuable than cars. Poachers know exactly which species they're targeting and leave empty holes where they've taken them. To combat this issue, various measures are being taken, including national parks with ranger patrols, and progressive movements like the International Anti Poaching Foundation's all-vegan women rangers in Zimbabwe. In South Africa alone, three of the 38 native cycad species are considered "loved to death" or extinct in the wild. Cycad poaching is a serious issue that requires attention and action, and it's crucial to find ways to protect these ancient plants for future generations.
Cycads and Their Symbiotic Relationships: Cycads rely on symbiotic bacteria for nitrogen fixation and beetles for pollination, ensuring their survival
Cycads, ancient living organisms without native presence in the US, have intriguing relationships with various organisms, including bacteria and beetles. These relationships are crucial for their survival. For instance, cycads have symbiotic bacteria in their roots that convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for the plant. Regarding pollination, beetles play a significant role, as they were the primary pollinators before bees evolved. The male and female cycads look identical, but their cones reveal their gender. Male cones emit an odor that attracts beetles, thrips, and weevils for an orgy-like event, leading to pollination and the continuation of the cycad species.
Cycad's Unique Reproductive System: Attracting Pollinators and Raising Temperature: The cycad plant, an ancient species, uses a complex system to attract pollinators and raise its temperature to release pollen, which includes increasing the production of the pollen attractant B. Myrcene and the use of stored carbohydrates and fats.
The cycad plant, an ancient species often referred to as a living fossil, has a unique and sophisticated reproductive system. When the cycad is ready to release its pollen, it increases the amount of a pollen attractant called B. Myrcene, which drives away the insects that have been pollinating the male cone. The insects then move on to the female cone to pollinate the eggs. The cycad uses its stored carbohydrates and fats to raise its temperature and release more of this pollen attractant. This system is unlike other flowers that attract insects with their odors but don't actively push them away. The compound M. Mersenne, which is used in perfumes, is responsible for the harsh, overwhelming odor that the cycad emits during this process. The sperm in cycads have motile sperm cells, allowing them to swim around and reach the egg. Despite being ancient, the cycad's reproductive system is quite advanced and complex.
Identifying Male and Female Cycads: Males have spherical pollen organs, females have seed-bearing cones. Handle with care due to neurotoxins in pollen.
While cycads may look like giant pineapples or open bud flowers, distinguishing between male and female cycad plants involves looking for round spherical objects on the underside and a conical pollen phallus in the center for males, and observing open bud-like structures with maturing seeds on the edges of the leaves for females. However, it's important to be cautious when examining cycads as their pollen contains neurotoxins that can be harmful to humans if inhaled or ingested. The reason why some animals can consume cycads without harm remains a scientific debate. Some cultures have discovered methods to detoxify the seeds through various soaking processes, but it's crucial to exercise caution when handling these plants.
Cycads and Sago Palms: Toxic Plants with Symbolic Significance: Cycads and Sago Palms are toxic plants that can cause severe symptoms if ingested, but have symbolic significance in various mythologies and popular culture
Certain plants, such as the sago palm and cycads, can be highly toxic and even fatal if ingested by humans or chickens. These plants have been known to cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure, and nosebleeds. The exact cause of the condition associated with cycads, known as ALS-PDC or lidocaine-induced channelopathy, is still not clear, with some researchers suggesting that traditional methods for preparing cycad seeds may not be safe. On a different note, cycads have appeared in various mythologies and stories, symbolizing war and peace, as well as indicating chiefly power. In popular culture, they have been featured in movies and novels. Despite their potential dangers, some believe that these plants hold medicinal value and have used their bark for various purposes. It's important to approach these plants with caution and respect their potential risks.
Botanist's Enthusiasm for Cycads: Botanist Rebecca Weinstein shares her joy for cycads, appreciates those who cultivate them, and offers writing advice for researchers
Cycads, though not easy to grow for everyone, bring joy and excitement to people regardless of their botanical skills. Rebecca Weinstein, a botanist, shares her enthusiasm for cycads, which can be found in various common places but also have rare, expensive species. She appreciates people who cultivate these plants, as it increases awareness and knowledge about them. For those who struggle with plant cultivation, Weinstein emphasizes that being a botanist doesn't require being good at growing plants in pots. The hardest part of her job, she reveals, is the constant pressure to write high-quality research papers. Her advice for writing includes setting aside time each day and forcing oneself to write, even if the initial draft is considered "rubbish." By revising and building upon these drafts, the final product often turns out to be good, if not great. Overall, Weinstein's passion for cycads and her practical writing advice demonstrate the importance of curiosity, persistence, and dedication in both scientific research and personal growth.
Connecting with people leads to opportunities: Seizing opportunities to connect and engage can lead to valuable experiences and collaborations.
It's important to seize opportunities to connect with people and engage in meaningful conversations, as you never know when it might lead to something exciting or valuable. Dr. Natalie Naglingham, a cycad expert, had long wanted to discuss her work and experiences with Ally Ward, but they finally connected during the pandemic. This conversation led to Dr. Naglingham sharing her knowledge through videos on the California Academy of Sciences' website, and Ally promoting her work on her podcast. The importance of this interaction is a reminder that it's essential to prioritize and act on our desires and connections, rather than putting them off for later. To learn more about Dr. Naglingham and her work, check out her website and Twitter, and tune in to Ally's panel with the California Academy of Sciences on March 3rd. Additionally, don't forget to follow Ally on Twitter and check out her other podcast, Small Cheese, for shorter, parent-friendly episodes.
