Babycat Posted November 4, 2015 Share Posted November 4, 2015 04 November 2015 Cocoa Tree (Theobroma cacao) The cocoa tree is the source of one of the world's most delicious and familiar products... chocolate. Cocoa is native to Mexico, Central America and northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Brazil, Guyana, Surinam and French Guiana). It has also been introduced as a crop plant into many tropical African and Asian countries. Cocoa is a spindly, evergreen tree 5 to 8 m tall; in its natural habitat, cocoa grows in the understory of evergreen tropical rainforests. It often grows in clumps along river banks, where the roots may be flooded for long periods of the year. Cocoa grows at low elevations, usually below 300 metres above sea level, in areas with 1,000 to 3,000 mm rainfall per year. The fruit is an egg-shaped red to brown berry (commonly referred to as a 'cocoa pod'), 15 to 25 cm long, with a more or less knobbly surface and lines from top to bottom. The 'pod' contains 30 to 40 seeds, each of which is surrounded by a bitter-sweet white pulp. In the wild the seeds are dispersed and eaten by different mammals like agoutis and monkeys. When the seeds are dried and fermented in the sun they are brownish red, and known as cocoa beans. The edible properties of Theobroma cacao were discovered over 2,000 years ago by the indigenous people of Central America living deep in the tropical rainforests. The Aztecs and Maya peoples had many ways of making food and drink from cocoa seeds (commonly referred to as 'cocoa beans'). They also used the beans as money, for example exchanging one turkey for 100 beans, or one slave for 200 beans. Chocolate was seen in Mexico by Christopher Columbus in August 1502. It is said that he came across a large canoe loaded with some small beans that looked to him like goat droppings, and that he paid them little attention. However, once Spanish explorers discovered its decadent delights in the 1520s, they brought cocoa beans home, sweetened the water-based recipe and spread this delicacy throughout Europe. By the middle of the 17th century sweetened hot chocolate was very popular throughout Europe, especially among the elite. The ingredients for chocolate – cocoa powder and cocoa butter (solids) – are prepared from fermented and roasted cocoa seeds. A typical bar of milk chocolate contains around 15% cocoa liquor and 20% cocoa powder. The distinctive flavour of chocolate develops during the fermentation process. http://i.imgur.com/RFyf160.png http://i.imgur.com/nTGNpBD.jpg Seedling: http://i.imgur.com/j0vfTiI.jpg Flowers: http://i.imgur.com/KXqIdp0.jpg Pods: http://i.imgur.com/0AvggyM.jpg Opened pods revealing cocoa 'beans': http://i.imgur.com/EOzeO6k.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ahon80E.png Cocoa production areas: http://i.imgur.com/ujSr47S.png Postage stamp: http://i.imgur.com/gmapgTS.jpg *********************** http://i.imgur.com/itLn4hl.pngmmm...just imagine having your own chocolate plant :drool: I know - what's why I started :drool: ing! :D 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 4, 2015 Author Share Posted November 4, 2015 05 November 2015 Feral Hogs Wild hogs are among the most destructive invasive species in the United States today. Two to six million of the animals are wreaking havoc in at least 39 states and four Canadian provinces; half are in Texas, where they do some $400 million in damages annually. They tear up recreational areas, occasionally even terrorizing tourists in state and national parks, and squeeze out other wildlife. Hogs are an Old World species that has existed since before the Ice Age. Evidence indicates that early man hunted and ate swine and that these animals continued to thrive throughout the Stone Age in Europe and Asia. Hogs may have been domesticated about 7000 B.C. Explorers such as De Soto, Cortes and LaSalle brought them to the New World. They have been in Texas since the 1680s and were important livestock to the early settlers, who usually allowed their animals to roam free. When confronted by war and economic hard times, settlers often had to abandon their homesteads on short notice, leaving their animals to fend for themselves. Thus, many free-ranging domesticated hogs became feral over time. The wily hogs seem to thrive in almost any conditions, climate or ecosystem in the state. They are surprisingly intelligent mammals and evade the best efforts to trap or kill them (and those that have been unsuccessfully hunted are even smarter). They have no natural predators, and there are no legal poisons to use against them. Sows begin breeding at 6 to 8 months of age and have two litters of four to eight piglets—a dozen is not unheard of—every 12 to 15 months during a life span of 4 to 8 years. Even porcine populations reduced by 70 percent return to full strength within two or three years. Wild hogs are opportunistic omnivores. Using their extra-long snouts, flattened and strengthened on the end by a plate of cartilage, they can root as deep as three feet. They’ll devour or destroy whole fields—of sorghum, rice, wheat, soybeans, potatoes, melons and other fruits, nuts, grass and hay. Farmers planting corn have discovered that the hogs go methodically down the rows during the night, extracting seeds one by one. Hogs erode the soil and muddy streams and other water sources, possibly causing fish kills. They disrupt native vegetation and make it easier for invasive plants to take hold. The hogs claim any food set out for livestock, and occasionally eat the livestock as well, especially lambs, kids and calves. They also eat such wildlife as deer and quail, and feast on the eggs of endangered sea turtles. Texas allows hunters to kill wild hogs year-round without limits or capture them alive to take to slaughterhouses to be processed and sold to restaurants as exotic meat. Thousands more are shot from helicopters. The goal is not eradication, which few believe possible, but control. http://i.imgur.com/cj67MnD.jpg http://i.imgur.com/huwlyCg.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QYnC7Pr.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/u2YuzIs.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/XE1g6ow.jpg Damage to suburban lawns caused by feral hogs: http://i.imgur.com/1s1YPph.jpg http://i.imgur.com/phs72Tg.jpg http://i.imgur.com/Q6BlR37.gif 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
x1yyz Posted November 5, 2015 Share Posted November 5, 2015 I used to go dirt bike riding in the hills south of San Jose, California and we've had to be careful about the wild pigs. It wouldn't be good to corner one! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Your_Lion Posted November 5, 2015 Share Posted November 5, 2015 05 November 2015 Feral Hogs Wild hogs are among the most destructive invasive species in the United States today. Two to six million of the animals are wreaking havoc in at least 39 states and four Canadian provinces; half are in Texas, where they do some $400 million in damages annually. They tear up recreational areas, occasionally even terrorizing tourists in state and national parks, and squeeze out other wildlife. Hogs are an Old World species that has existed since before the Ice Age. Evidence indicates that early man hunted and ate swine and that these animals continued to thrive throughout the Stone Age in Europe and Asia. Hogs may have been domesticated about 7000 B.C. Explorers such as De Soto, Cortes and LaSalle brought them to the New World. They have been in Texas since the 1680s and were important livestock to the early settlers, who usually allowed their animals to roam free. When confronted by war and economic hard times, settlers often had to abandon their homesteads on short notice, leaving their animals to fend for themselves. Thus, many free-ranging domesticated hogs became feral over time. The wily hogs seem to thrive in almost any conditions, climate or ecosystem in the state. They are surprisingly intelligent mammals and evade the best efforts to trap or kill them (and those that have been unsuccessfully hunted are even smarter). They have no natural predators, and there are no legal poisons to use against them. Sows begin breeding at 6 to 8 months of age and have two litters of four to eight piglets—a dozen is not unheard of—every 12 to 15 months during a life span of 4 to 8 years. Even porcine populations reduced by 70 percent return to full strength within two or three years. Wild hogs are opportunistic omnivores. Using their extra-long snouts, flattened and strengthened on the end by a plate of cartilage, they can root as deep as three feet. They’ll devour or destroy whole fields—of sorghum, rice, wheat, soybeans, potatoes, melons and other fruits, nuts, grass and hay. Farmers planting corn have discovered that the hogs go methodically down the rows during the night, extracting seeds one by one. Hogs erode the soil and muddy streams and other water sources, possibly causing fish kills. They disrupt native vegetation and make it easier for invasive plants to take hold. The hogs claim any food set out for livestock, and occasionally eat the livestock as well, especially lambs, kids and calves. They also eat such wildlife as deer and quail, and feast on the eggs of endangered sea turtles. Texas allows hunters to kill wild hogs year-round without limits or capture them alive to take to slaughterhouses to be processed and sold to restaurants as exotic meat. Thousands more are shot from helicopters. The goal is not eradication, which few believe possible, but control. http://i.imgur.com/cj67MnD.jpg http://i.imgur.com/huwlyCg.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QYnC7Pr.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/u2YuzIs.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/XE1g6ow.jpg Damage to suburban lawns caused by feral hogs: http://i.imgur.com/1s1YPph.jpg http://i.imgur.com/phs72Tg.jpg http://i.imgur.com/Q6BlR37.gifhttp://www.reocities.com/enchantedforest/7019/BOARS.JPG 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 5, 2015 Share Posted November 5, 2015 I used to go dirt bike riding in the hills south of San Jose, California and we've had to be careful about the wild pigs. It wouldn't be good to corner one! Or get cornered by one..? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 5, 2015 Share Posted November 5, 2015 05 November 2015 Feral Hogs Wild hogs are among the most destructive invasive species in the United States today. Two to six million of the animals are wreaking havoc in at least 39 states and four Canadian provinces; half are in Texas, where they do some $400 million in damages annually. They tear up recreational areas, occasionally even terrorizing tourists in state and national parks, and squeeze out other wildlife. Hogs are an Old World species that has existed since before the Ice Age. Evidence indicates that early man hunted and ate swine and that these animals continued to thrive throughout the Stone Age in Europe and Asia. Hogs may have been domesticated about 7000 B.C. Explorers such as De Soto, Cortes and LaSalle brought them to the New World. They have been in Texas since the 1680s and were important livestock to the early settlers, who usually allowed their animals to roam free. When confronted by war and economic hard times, settlers often had to abandon their homesteads on short notice, leaving their animals to fend for themselves. Thus, many free-ranging domesticated hogs became feral over time. The wily hogs seem to thrive in almost any conditions, climate or ecosystem in the state. They are surprisingly intelligent mammals and evade the best efforts to trap or kill them (and those that have been unsuccessfully hunted are even smarter). They have no natural predators, and there are no legal poisons to use against them. Sows begin breeding at 6 to 8 months of age and have two litters of four to eight piglets—a dozen is not unheard of—every 12 to 15 months during a life span of 4 to 8 years. Even porcine populations reduced by 70 percent return to full strength within two or three years. Wild hogs are opportunistic omnivores. Using their extra-long snouts, flattened and strengthened on the end by a plate of cartilage, they can root as deep as three feet. They’ll devour or destroy whole fields—of sorghum, rice, wheat, soybeans, potatoes, melons and other fruits, nuts, grass and hay. Farmers planting corn have discovered that the hogs go methodically down the rows during the night, extracting seeds one by one. Hogs erode the soil and muddy streams and other water sources, possibly causing fish kills. They disrupt native vegetation and make it easier for invasive plants to take hold. The hogs claim any food set out for livestock, and occasionally eat the livestock as well, especially lambs, kids and calves. They also eat such wildlife as deer and quail, and feast on the eggs of endangered sea turtles. Texas allows hunters to kill wild hogs year-round without limits or capture them alive to take to slaughterhouses to be processed and sold to restaurants as exotic meat. Thousands more are shot from helicopters. The goal is not eradication, which few believe possible, but control. http://i.imgur.com/cj67MnD.jpg http://i.imgur.com/huwlyCg.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QYnC7Pr.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/u2YuzIs.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/XE1g6ow.jpg Damage to suburban lawns caused by feral hogs: http://i.imgur.com/1s1YPph.jpg http://i.imgur.com/phs72Tg.jpg http://i.imgur.com/Q6BlR37.gif I have but one question about porcine activities: why do they roll about in the mud? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
x1yyz Posted November 5, 2015 Share Posted November 5, 2015 I have but one question about porcine activities: why do they roll about in the mud? They do so to cool off and to protect their body from insects. Although I suspect they do it much less often that is portrayed by the media. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 6, 2015 Author Share Posted November 6, 2015 (edited) 06 November 2015Friday Brown Hydra Brown hydras (Hydra oligactis) are freshwater animals that belong to the same group as jellyfish, corals and sea anemones. The sac-shaped 'body' is topped with a mouth surrounded by a crown of tentacles that feature stinging cells used to stun prey. The brown hydra, although largely a sessile species, is capable of moving by gliding along on the 'basal disc', the part of the body that attaches to the substrate. They may also move by bending the body around, attaching to the substrate with the tentacles, and then 'somersaulting' or 'looping' forwards. This species is carnivorous; it feeds on small aquatic invertebrates that are paralysed by the stinging cells when the prey comes into contact with the tentacles. The prey item is then brought to the mouth by the tentacles and taken into the body of the hydra. Reproduction in hydras typically takes place asexually by a process known as 'budding', in which a bud-like growth on the body of the 'parent' hydra eventually grows into a new individual that becomes separated from the parent. When conditions are harsh, or there is a shortage of food, hydras can reproduce sexually; a single individual may produce both male and female sex cells, which are released into the water where fertilisation occurs. The egg develops into a larva, which is covered in tiny hair-like structures known as cilia. The larva may either settle immediately and develop into a hydra, or become surrounded in a tough outer layer that allows it to survive harsh conditions. Most species of hydra are less than 0.6 inches (15 mm) in length, not including the tentacles, and are inconspicuous. Hydra will only rarely be spotted in their natural habitats, but if samples of aquatic vegetation are transferred to a clear glass or plastic container, they will often be found in considerable numbers. Both the column and tentacles gradually extend in still water. The brown hydra is a widespread species, found throughout the northern hemisphere and parts of Australia, and is found in freshwater ponds, brooks, rivers, and streams, as well as at the edges of lakes, and typically attaches to aquatic plants, stones, twigs and debris. http://i.imgur.com/3ED106e.jpg http://i.imgur.com/0CXa7Pb.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/nFDNAGA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vYGwYS0.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zI5sFbT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/6vf6CNB.jpg http://youtu.be/Ut-ZZeNmbSc Edited November 6, 2015 by substancewithoutstyle 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Your_Lion Posted November 6, 2015 Share Posted November 6, 2015 06 November 2015Friday Brown Hydra Brown hydras (Hydra oligactis) are freshwater animals that belong to the same group as jellyfish, corals and sea anemones. The sac-shaped 'body' is topped with a mouth surrounded by a crown of tentacles that feature stinging cells used to stun prey. The brown hydra, although largely a sessile species, is capable of moving by gliding along on the 'basal disc', the part of the body that attaches to the substrate. They may also move by bending the body around, attaching to the substrate with the tentacles, and then 'somersaulting' or 'looping' forwards. This species is carnivorous; it feeds on small aquatic invertebrates that are paralysed by the stinging cells when the prey comes into contact with the tentacles. The prey item is then brought to the mouth by the tentacles and taken into the body of the hydra. Reproduction in hydras typically takes place asexually by a process known as 'budding', in which a bud-like growth on the body of the 'parent' hydra eventually grows into a new individual that becomes separated from the parent. When conditions are harsh, or there is a shortage of food, hydras can reproduce sexually; a single individual may produce both male and female sex cells, which are released into the water where fertilisation occurs. The egg develops into a larva, which is covered in tiny hair-like structures known as cilia. The larva may either settle immediately and develop into a hydra, or become surrounded in a tough outer layer that allows it to survive harsh conditions. Most species of hydra are less than 0.6 inches (15 mm) in length, not including the tentacles, and are inconspicuous. Hydra will only rarely be spotted in their natural habitats, but if samples of aquatic vegetation are transferred to a clear glass or plastic container, they will often be found in considerable numbers. Both the column and tentacles gradually extend in still water. The brown hydra is a widespread species, found throughout the northern hemisphere and parts of Australia, and is found in freshwater ponds, brooks, rivers, and streams, as well as at the edges of lakes, and typically attaches to aquatic plants, stones, twigs and debris. http://i.imgur.com/3ED106e.jpg http://i.imgur.com/0CXa7Pb.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/nFDNAGA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vYGwYS0.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zI5sFbT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/6vf6CNB.jpg Cool. I like the vid. Nice to see how it moves and eats 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 6, 2015 Share Posted November 6, 2015 I have but one question about porcine activities: why do they roll about in the mud? They do so to cool off and to protect their body from insects. Although I suspect they do it much less often that is portrayed by the media. Thank you, x1yyz! :) 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 6, 2015 Share Posted November 6, 2015 06 November 2015Friday Brown Hydra Brown hydras (Hydra oligactis) are freshwater animals that belong to the same group as jellyfish, corals and sea anemones. The sac-shaped 'body' is topped with a mouth surrounded by a crown of tentacles that feature stinging cells used to stun prey. The brown hydra, although largely a sessile species, is capable of moving by gliding along on the 'basal disc', the part of the body that attaches to the substrate. They may also move by bending the body around, attaching to the substrate with the tentacles, and then 'somersaulting' or 'looping' forwards. This species is carnivorous; it feeds on small aquatic invertebrates that are paralysed by the stinging cells when the prey comes into contact with the tentacles. The prey item is then brought to the mouth by the tentacles and taken into the body of the hydra. Reproduction in hydras typically takes place asexually by a process known as 'budding', in which a bud-like growth on the body of the 'parent' hydra eventually grows into a new individual that becomes separated from the parent. When conditions are harsh, or there is a shortage of food, hydras can reproduce sexually; a single individual may produce both male and female sex cells, which are released into the water where fertilisation occurs. The egg develops into a larva, which is covered in tiny hair-like structures known as cilia. The larva may either settle immediately and develop into a hydra, or become surrounded in a tough outer layer that allows it to survive harsh conditions. Most species of hydra are less than 0.6 inches (15 mm) in length, not including the tentacles, and are inconspicuous. Hydra will only rarely be spotted in their natural habitats, but if samples of aquatic vegetation are transferred to a clear glass or plastic container, they will often be found in considerable numbers. Both the column and tentacles gradually extend in still water. The brown hydra is a widespread species, found throughout the northern hemisphere and parts of Australia, and is found in freshwater ponds, brooks, rivers, and streams, as well as at the edges of lakes, and typically attaches to aquatic plants, stones, twigs and debris. http://i.imgur.com/3ED106e.jpg http://i.imgur.com/0CXa7Pb.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/nFDNAGA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vYGwYS0.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/zI5sFbT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/6vf6CNB.jpg http://youtu.be/Ut-ZZeNmbSc Amazing! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 7, 2015 Author Share Posted November 7, 2015 07 November 2015Saturday Venus Flytrap The Venus flytrap is perhaps one of the best-known carnivorous plants. Its leaves are modified in an extraordinary way in order to feed on insects, although it does still obtain energy from the sun. The plant is an innocuous looking rosette, but the leaf blades terminate in distinctive bivalve traps with sharply toothed edges. The outside of the traps are generally green, while the insides have red pigment that varies in shade depending on the age of the trap; on the edge of each lobe there are 14-20 teeth that point radially from the trap. The flower stalk is devoid of leaves (known as a scape) and can reach up to 30 cm tall. In season, small white flowers are born with faint green veins; the seed capsules are flat and contain a single, shiny black seed. The Venus flytrap, as its name suggests, is able to catch and digest insects. Insects are attracted to the small traps by the bright pigment and the nectar secreted by a row of glands situated just below the teeth of the trap. On the inner lobes there are usually three trigger hairs, and if an insect lands on a lobe and brushes against two of these hairs within a short space of time, the trap will snap partially shut with a speed that amazes onlookers. It is believed that this phenomenon is achieved by the rapid growth of cells on the trap's outer surface. The teeth are now interlocked, preventing larger prey from escaping, but the trap must close further to produce a tight seal if the prey is to be digested. It is thought that this slower closing process is triggered by chemical and mechanical signals released by the struggling prey, and is accomplished by localised areas of cell growth, such as at the hinge. The teeth are now pointing outwards and the trap is sealed, allowing digestion to begin using digestive juices released from glands within the inner trap wall; the process of digestion usually takes 7 to 10 days. The Venus flytrap is a perennial plant, which produces flowers from mid-May to the beginning of June; the method of pollination is not yet understood, and while cross-pollination seems likely, self-pollination may also be possible. It is thought that seeds are dispersed in water, or by birds that accidentally pick up seeds in the muddy habitat. Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. http://i.imgur.com/MyHY1ZV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/S388K1j.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/J8XdR7U.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hGyfELd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QN1ENhF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Aw5G9nh.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/13rzZsB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/h3QZUIQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MPV3qBU.jpg 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
x1yyz Posted November 7, 2015 Share Posted November 7, 2015 Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. That's not a very big area. http://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpg Poor froggy! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 7, 2015 Share Posted November 7, 2015 Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. That's not a very big area. http://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpg Poor froggy! That's what I thought..! :( 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 7, 2015 Share Posted November 7, 2015 07 November 2015Saturday Venus Flytrap The Venus flytrap is perhaps one of the best-known carnivorous plants. Its leaves are modified in an extraordinary way in order to feed on insects, although it does still obtain energy from the sun. The plant is an innocuous looking rosette, but the leaf blades terminate in distinctive bivalve traps with sharply toothed edges. The outside of the traps are generally green, while the insides have red pigment that varies in shade depending on the age of the trap; on the edge of each lobe there are 14-20 teeth that point radially from the trap. The flower stalk is devoid of leaves (known as a scape) and can reach up to 30 cm tall. In season, small white flowers are born with faint green veins; the seed capsules are flat and contain a single, shiny black seed. The Venus flytrap, as its name suggests, is able to catch and digest insects. Insects are attracted to the small traps by the bright pigment and the nectar secreted by a row of glands situated just below the teeth of the trap. On the inner lobes there are usually three trigger hairs, and if an insect lands on a lobe and brushes against two of these hairs within a short space of time, the trap will snap partially shut with a speed that amazes onlookers. It is believed that this phenomenon is achieved by the rapid growth of cells on the trap's outer surface. The teeth are now interlocked, preventing larger prey from escaping, but the trap must close further to produce a tight seal if the prey is to be digested. It is thought that this slower closing process is triggered by chemical and mechanical signals released by the struggling prey, and is accomplished by localised areas of cell growth, such as at the hinge. The teeth are now pointing outwards and the trap is sealed, allowing digestion to begin using digestive juices released from glands within the inner trap wall; the process of digestion usually takes 7 to 10 days. The Venus flytrap is a perennial plant, which produces flowers from mid-May to the beginning of June; the method of pollination is not yet understood, and while cross-pollination seems likely, self-pollination may also be possible. It is thought that seeds are dispersed in water, or by birds that accidentally pick up seeds in the muddy habitat. Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. http://i.imgur.com/MyHY1ZV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/S388K1j.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/J8XdR7U.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hGyfELd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QN1ENhF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Aw5G9nh.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/13rzZsB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/h3QZUIQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MPV3qBU.jpg They scare me - I wouldn't want my tail to get caught in one of those thingies! 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Your_Lion Posted November 7, 2015 Share Posted November 7, 2015 07 November 2015Saturday Venus Flytrap The Venus flytrap is perhaps one of the best-known carnivorous plants. Its leaves are modified in an extraordinary way in order to feed on insects, although it does still obtain energy from the sun. The plant is an innocuous looking rosette, but the leaf blades terminate in distinctive bivalve traps with sharply toothed edges. The outside of the traps are generally green, while the insides have red pigment that varies in shade depending on the age of the trap; on the edge of each lobe there are 14-20 teeth that point radially from the trap. The flower stalk is devoid of leaves (known as a scape) and can reach up to 30 cm tall. In season, small white flowers are born with faint green veins; the seed capsules are flat and contain a single, shiny black seed. The Venus flytrap, as its name suggests, is able to catch and digest insects. Insects are attracted to the small traps by the bright pigment and the nectar secreted by a row of glands situated just below the teeth of the trap. On the inner lobes there are usually three trigger hairs, and if an insect lands on a lobe and brushes against two of these hairs within a short space of time, the trap will snap partially shut with a speed that amazes onlookers. It is believed that this phenomenon is achieved by the rapid growth of cells on the trap's outer surface. The teeth are now interlocked, preventing larger prey from escaping, but the trap must close further to produce a tight seal if the prey is to be digested. It is thought that this slower closing process is triggered by chemical and mechanical signals released by the struggling prey, and is accomplished by localised areas of cell growth, such as at the hinge. The teeth are now pointing outwards and the trap is sealed, allowing digestion to begin using digestive juices released from glands within the inner trap wall; the process of digestion usually takes 7 to 10 days. The Venus flytrap is a perennial plant, which produces flowers from mid-May to the beginning of June; the method of pollination is not yet understood, and while cross-pollination seems likely, self-pollination may also be possible. It is thought that seeds are dispersed in water, or by birds that accidentally pick up seeds in the muddy habitat. Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. http://i.imgur.com/MyHY1ZV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/S388K1j.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/J8XdR7U.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hGyfELd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QN1ENhF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Aw5G9nh.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/13rzZsB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/h3QZUIQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MPV3qBU.jpgGot a little one of those at home. A very handy plant. I really don't like flies. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 8, 2015 Author Share Posted November 8, 2015 07 November 2015Saturday Venus Flytrap The Venus flytrap is perhaps one of the best-known carnivorous plants. Its leaves are modified in an extraordinary way in order to feed on insects, although it does still obtain energy from the sun. The plant is an innocuous looking rosette, but the leaf blades terminate in distinctive bivalve traps with sharply toothed edges. The outside of the traps are generally green, while the insides have red pigment that varies in shade depending on the age of the trap; on the edge of each lobe there are 14-20 teeth that point radially from the trap. The flower stalk is devoid of leaves (known as a scape) and can reach up to 30 cm tall. In season, small white flowers are born with faint green veins; the seed capsules are flat and contain a single, shiny black seed. The Venus flytrap, as its name suggests, is able to catch and digest insects. Insects are attracted to the small traps by the bright pigment and the nectar secreted by a row of glands situated just below the teeth of the trap. On the inner lobes there are usually three trigger hairs, and if an insect lands on a lobe and brushes against two of these hairs within a short space of time, the trap will snap partially shut with a speed that amazes onlookers. It is believed that this phenomenon is achieved by the rapid growth of cells on the trap's outer surface. The teeth are now interlocked, preventing larger prey from escaping, but the trap must close further to produce a tight seal if the prey is to be digested. It is thought that this slower closing process is triggered by chemical and mechanical signals released by the struggling prey, and is accomplished by localised areas of cell growth, such as at the hinge. The teeth are now pointing outwards and the trap is sealed, allowing digestion to begin using digestive juices released from glands within the inner trap wall; the process of digestion usually takes 7 to 10 days. The Venus flytrap is a perennial plant, which produces flowers from mid-May to the beginning of June; the method of pollination is not yet understood, and while cross-pollination seems likely, self-pollination may also be possible. It is thought that seeds are dispersed in water, or by birds that accidentally pick up seeds in the muddy habitat. Endemic to North America, the Venus flytrap is found in bogs from south-eastern North Carolina reaching into north-eastern South Carolina. http://i.imgur.com/MyHY1ZV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/S388K1j.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/J8XdR7U.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/hGyfELd.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/QN1ENhF.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Bdl14dW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Aw5G9nh.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/13rzZsB.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/h3QZUIQ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MPV3qBU.jpgGot a little one of those at home. A very handy plant. I really don't like flies. I attempted to grow one under fluorescent lights a few years ago ...didn't last long. :( 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 8, 2015 Author Share Posted November 8, 2015 08 November 2015Remembrance Day Corn Poppies (Papaver rhoeas) Not to be confused with the Opium Poppy (P. Somniferum). There's already an entry for that one ...somewhere in this thread. The corn poppy is a familiar wild flower, which has long been a symbol of death and rebirth, and is worn in many countries on Remembrance Day in order to commemorate those who lost their lives during warfare. The vibrant blood red blooms are supported by hairy stalks; the rounded petals are broader than they are long, and often have a dark spot at the base. The branching stems are covered with stiff hairs, and the leaves are narrow and divided into toothed segments. The fruit is in the form of a capsule, capped by a disk; the small brown seeds are released via holes that open below the disk. The seedlings of this annual plant appear in spring. The flowers, which are present from April to August, are visited by a large range of insects, but particularly bees. Each plant is able to produce around 17,000 seeds, these can remain dormant in the soil for 80 years or more, perhaps even as long as 100 years. Poppy seeds have been found in Egyptian relics dating from 2,500 BC, and the poppy has been a symbol of death and rebirth since these times; it grows in the fields, is cut with the harvest and always returns the following year. The profusion of poppies on the First World War battlefields of Ypres and the Somme struck a chord with all who saw them. The poem 'In Flanders Fields', written by a Canadian volunteer medical officer in Ypres during the winter of 1915, was published around the world. Following the publication of this poem, the practice of wearing artificial poppies to commemorate Remembrance Day became very popular, and continues today. The corn poppy was introduced to Britain; it is known from Bronze Age deposits, and it seems to have been introduced with early agriculture in the seed-corn of early settlers. It is now widespread throughout much of Britain; it is common in England and southeast Scotland but becomes rare in north-western Scotland and is mainly found close to the coast in Wales. It is thought to be native to southern Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia, but has become naturalised outside of this range. http://i.imgur.com/khjEEiP.jpg http://i.imgur.com/DRU1Aeo.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Ryd8bqH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MUqKvaM.pnghttp://i.imgur.com/1fxQ03x.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/CA4rtmU.jpg 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 8, 2015 Share Posted November 8, 2015 08 November 2015Remembrance Day Corn Poppies (Papaver rhoeas) Not to be confused with the Opium Poppy (P. Somniferum). There's already an entry for that one ...somewhere in this thread. The corn poppy is a familiar wild flower, which has long been a symbol of death and rebirth, and is worn in many countries on Remembrance Day in order to commemorate those who lost their lives during warfare. The vibrant blood red blooms are supported by hairy stalks; the rounded petals are broader than they are long, and often have a dark spot at the base. The branching stems are covered with stiff hairs, and the leaves are narrow and divided into toothed segments. The fruit is in the form of a capsule, capped by a disk; the small brown seeds are released via holes that open below the disk. The seedlings of this annual plant appear in spring. The flowers, which are present from April to August, are visited by a large range of insects, but particularly bees. Each plant is able to produce around 17,000 seeds, these can remain dormant in the soil for 80 years or more, perhaps even as long as 100 years. Poppy seeds have been found in Egyptian relics dating from 2,500 BC, and the poppy has been a symbol of death and rebirth since these times; it grows in the fields, is cut with the harvest and always returns the following year. The profusion of poppies on the First World War battlefields of Ypres and the Somme struck a chord with all who saw them. The poem 'In Flanders Fields', written by a Canadian volunteer medical officer in Ypres during the winter of 1915, was published around the world. Following the publication of this poem, the practice of wearing artificial poppies to commemorate Remembrance Day became very popular, and continues today. The corn poppy was introduced to Britain; it is known from Bronze Age deposits, and it seems to have been introduced with early agriculture in the seed-corn of early settlers. It is now widespread throughout much of Britain; it is common in England and southeast Scotland but becomes rare in north-western Scotland and is mainly found close to the coast in Wales. It is thought to be native to southern Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia, but has become naturalised outside of this range. http://i.imgur.com/khjEEiP.jpg http://i.imgur.com/DRU1Aeo.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Ryd8bqH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MUqKvaM.pnghttp://i.imgur.com/1fxQ03x.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/CA4rtmU.jpg I wore one today, to commemorate Remembrance Day. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Your_Lion Posted November 9, 2015 Share Posted November 9, 2015 08 November 2015Remembrance Day Corn Poppies (Papaver rhoeas) Not to be confused with the Opium Poppy (P. Somniferum). There's already an entry for that one ...somewhere in this thread. The corn poppy is a familiar wild flower, which has long been a symbol of death and rebirth, and is worn in many countries on Remembrance Day in order to commemorate those who lost their lives during warfare. The vibrant blood red blooms are supported by hairy stalks; the rounded petals are broader than they are long, and often have a dark spot at the base. The branching stems are covered with stiff hairs, and the leaves are narrow and divided into toothed segments. The fruit is in the form of a capsule, capped by a disk; the small brown seeds are released via holes that open below the disk. The seedlings of this annual plant appear in spring. The flowers, which are present from April to August, are visited by a large range of insects, but particularly bees. Each plant is able to produce around 17,000 seeds, these can remain dormant in the soil for 80 years or more, perhaps even as long as 100 years. Poppy seeds have been found in Egyptian relics dating from 2,500 BC, and the poppy has been a symbol of death and rebirth since these times; it grows in the fields, is cut with the harvest and always returns the following year. The profusion of poppies on the First World War battlefields of Ypres and the Somme struck a chord with all who saw them. The poem 'In Flanders Fields', written by a Canadian volunteer medical officer in Ypres during the winter of 1915, was published around the world. Following the publication of this poem, the practice of wearing artificial poppies to commemorate Remembrance Day became very popular, and continues today. The corn poppy was introduced to Britain; it is known from Bronze Age deposits, and it seems to have been introduced with early agriculture in the seed-corn of early settlers. It is now widespread throughout much of Britain; it is common in England and southeast Scotland but becomes rare in north-western Scotland and is mainly found close to the coast in Wales. It is thought to be native to southern Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia, but has become naturalised outside of this range. http://i.imgur.com/khjEEiP.jpg http://i.imgur.com/DRU1Aeo.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/Ryd8bqH.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/MUqKvaM.pnghttp://i.imgur.com/1fxQ03x.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/CA4rtmU.jpgWow. I didn't know that the symbolism also dates back to Egyptian times. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 9, 2015 Author Share Posted November 9, 2015 09 November 2015 Common Brushtail Possum Brushtail possums are the most abundant, widely distributed and frequently encountered of all Australian marsupials. As its name suggests, the common brushtail possum has a rather bushy tail, which is prehensile at the tip and has a naked patch on the underside, helping it to grip branches. The common brushtail possum is largely nocturnal and arboreal, and is an agile climber, although it may also travel along the ground. The diet varies depending on the location, but typically includes leaves, flowers, shoots, fruits and seeds, as well as insects, birds’ eggs and occasionally other small animals, such as young birds. The common brushtail possum is mainly solitary, maintaining spacing between individuals using a mixture of scent-marking, vocalisations and agonistic encounters. One of the most vocal groups of marsupials, brushtail possums communicate with a range of calls, including clicks, grunts, hisses, alarm chatters, guttural coughs, and screeching. Breeding may occur at any time of year, particularly in northern Australia, but usually peaks in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) in other areas. In some areas, females may give birth in both seasons. The female common brushtail possum usually gives birth to a single young, after a gestation period of 16 to 18 days. Females begin to breed at around a year old, and males by the end of the second year, with young females usually establishing a home range adjacent to that of the adult female, while young males disperse further afield. Lifespan may be up to 13 years in the wild. The common brushtail possum is widespread throughout Australia, and is also found on Tasmania and a number of other offshore islands, including Barrow Island and Kangaroo Island. The species has also been introduced to New Zealand, where it is now widespread. http://i.imgur.com/BzOqZhJ.jpg http://i.imgur.com/OrYOEo3.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/D0cTLVY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lp6bGP9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/0E0diX5.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/07hOIzx.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VOF2eMW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ROnVsy1.gif 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Babycat Posted November 10, 2015 Share Posted November 10, 2015 09 November 2015 Common Brushtail Possum Brushtail possums are the most abundant, widely distributed and frequently encountered of all Australian marsupials. As its name suggests, the common brushtail possum has a rather bushy tail, which is prehensile at the tip and has a naked patch on the underside, helping it to grip branches. The common brushtail possum is largely nocturnal and arboreal, and is an agile climber, although it may also travel along the ground. The diet varies depending on the location, but typically includes leaves, flowers, shoots, fruits and seeds, as well as insects, birds’ eggs and occasionally other small animals, such as young birds. The common brushtail possum is mainly solitary, maintaining spacing between individuals using a mixture of scent-marking, vocalisations and agonistic encounters. One of the most vocal groups of marsupials, brushtail possums communicate with a range of calls, including clicks, grunts, hisses, alarm chatters, guttural coughs, and screeching. Breeding may occur at any time of year, particularly in northern Australia, but usually peaks in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) in other areas. In some areas, females may give birth in both seasons. The female common brushtail possum usually gives birth to a single young, after a gestation period of 16 to 18 days. Females begin to breed at around a year old, and males by the end of the second year, with young females usually establishing a home range adjacent to that of the adult female, while young males disperse further afield. Lifespan may be up to 13 years in the wild. The common brushtail possum is widespread throughout Australia, and is also found on Tasmania and a number of other offshore islands, including Barrow Island and Kangaroo Island. The species has also been introduced to New Zealand, where it is now widespread. http://i.imgur.com/BzOqZhJ.jpg http://i.imgur.com/OrYOEo3.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/D0cTLVY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lp6bGP9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/0E0diX5.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/07hOIzx.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VOF2eMW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ROnVsy1.gif Is it true they fake death to fool predators? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Your_Lion Posted November 10, 2015 Share Posted November 10, 2015 09 November 2015 Common Brushtail Possum Brushtail possums are the most abundant, widely distributed and frequently encountered of all Australian marsupials. As its name suggests, the common brushtail possum has a rather bushy tail, which is prehensile at the tip and has a naked patch on the underside, helping it to grip branches. The common brushtail possum is largely nocturnal and arboreal, and is an agile climber, although it may also travel along the ground. The diet varies depending on the location, but typically includes leaves, flowers, shoots, fruits and seeds, as well as insects, birds’ eggs and occasionally other small animals, such as young birds. The common brushtail possum is mainly solitary, maintaining spacing between individuals using a mixture of scent-marking, vocalisations and agonistic encounters. One of the most vocal groups of marsupials, brushtail possums communicate with a range of calls, including clicks, grunts, hisses, alarm chatters, guttural coughs, and screeching. Breeding may occur at any time of year, particularly in northern Australia, but usually peaks in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) in other areas. In some areas, females may give birth in both seasons. The female common brushtail possum usually gives birth to a single young, after a gestation period of 16 to 18 days. Females begin to breed at around a year old, and males by the end of the second year, with young females usually establishing a home range adjacent to that of the adult female, while young males disperse further afield. Lifespan may be up to 13 years in the wild. The common brushtail possum is widespread throughout Australia, and is also found on Tasmania and a number of other offshore islands, including Barrow Island and Kangaroo Island. The species has also been introduced to New Zealand, where it is now widespread. http://i.imgur.com/BzOqZhJ.jpg http://i.imgur.com/OrYOEo3.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/D0cTLVY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lp6bGP9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/0E0diX5.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/07hOIzx.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VOF2eMW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ROnVsy1.gifA bit of a cutie, with a constantly surprised look (unless they're just surprised by cameras )Aw, those little fingers on that last pic 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 10, 2015 Author Share Posted November 10, 2015 09 November 2015 Common Brushtail Possum Brushtail possums are the most abundant, widely distributed and frequently encountered of all Australian marsupials. As its name suggests, the common brushtail possum has a rather bushy tail, which is prehensile at the tip and has a naked patch on the underside, helping it to grip branches. The common brushtail possum is largely nocturnal and arboreal, and is an agile climber, although it may also travel along the ground. The diet varies depending on the location, but typically includes leaves, flowers, shoots, fruits and seeds, as well as insects, birds’ eggs and occasionally other small animals, such as young birds. The common brushtail possum is mainly solitary, maintaining spacing between individuals using a mixture of scent-marking, vocalisations and agonistic encounters. One of the most vocal groups of marsupials, brushtail possums communicate with a range of calls, including clicks, grunts, hisses, alarm chatters, guttural coughs, and screeching. Breeding may occur at any time of year, particularly in northern Australia, but usually peaks in spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) in other areas. In some areas, females may give birth in both seasons. The female common brushtail possum usually gives birth to a single young, after a gestation period of 16 to 18 days. Females begin to breed at around a year old, and males by the end of the second year, with young females usually establishing a home range adjacent to that of the adult female, while young males disperse further afield. Lifespan may be up to 13 years in the wild. The common brushtail possum is widespread throughout Australia, and is also found on Tasmania and a number of other offshore islands, including Barrow Island and Kangaroo Island. The species has also been introduced to New Zealand, where it is now widespread. http://i.imgur.com/BzOqZhJ.jpg http://i.imgur.com/OrYOEo3.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/D0cTLVY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/lp6bGP9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/0E0diX5.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/07hOIzx.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VOF2eMW.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ROnVsy1.gif Is it true they fake death to fool predators? They fake death so their spouse can collect on their insurance policies. :outtahere: 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HomesickAlien Posted November 11, 2015 Author Share Posted November 11, 2015 11 November 2015 Brazilian Wandering Spider The Brazilian wandering spider (Phoneutria fera) is an aggressive and highly venomous spider. While first discovered in Brazil, this genus is known to exist elsewhere in South and Central America. The Guinness Book of World Records has named it the most venomous spider in the world for possessing the most active neurotoxic venom of any living spider. The toxin causes extreme pain, swelling, paralysis, skin cell destruction, fatal breathing complications, heart attacks, and painful erections (priapism) lasting up to four-hours. Victims of a Brazilian wandering spider bite can reportedly be killed in an hour, but few deaths occur because an effective anti-venom is available in Brazil, and when people are killed it is usually in children under the age of seven. The Brazilian wandering spider is so-called because it wanders the jungle floor, rather than residing in a lair or maintaining a web. This is another reason it is considered so dangerous; in densely populated areas, the wandering spider will usually search for cover and dark places to hide during daytime, leading it to hide within houses, clothes, cars, boots, boxes and log piles, resulting in bites when people disturb them. The wandering spider is also called the ‘banana spider’, as it is occasionally found within shipments of bananas. As a result, any large spider appearing in a bunch of bananas should be treated with due care. The wandering spider can grow to have a leg span of 4 to 5 inches. They are large, hairy, spindly-looking spiders, resembling tarantulas, although not related. They have a life span of up to 2 years. http://i.imgur.com/OPMXJLT.jpg http://i.imgur.com/5qDfyvu.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/GGvJcdY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/1AhYIR2.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/v3uJyHw.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/BwhVYHA.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/NkcYTIC.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/rEKCBAe.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/rTMgVJE.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/fWh3Ivq.jpg http://www.mirror.co...enomous-5927056 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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