Capsules launch seeds: Namaqualand mesems

1 of 3 seed pods / withrow / License

The seeds of many Mesembryanthemums are launched from their capsules for dispersal thanks to a valve mechanism that uses rainwater as a trigger.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain community >
	Provide ecosystem services >
	Disperse seeds

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Water-driven valve operation, emergency shut-down valves. Seed delivery system in remote areas -- tied to rains.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Most of the Namaqualand mesems [Mesembryanthemums], as they are known for short, do not scatter their seeds after flowering but retain them in capsules. The structure of these devices is usually very intricate indeed. When the first rain falls, perhaps as a short and isolated shower, the capsules absorb moisture and swell, causing a star-shaped set of valves to open. But even now the seeds are not shed. That must wait for a second shower. Then a raindrop striking a valve operates a mechanism that flings out the seeds for a distance of yards." (Attenborough 1995:278)

About the inspiring organism

Mesembryanthemum
Mesembryanthemum

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Water-driven valve operation, emergency shut-down valves. Seed delivery system in remote areas -- tied to rains.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Manufacturing, oil and gas, agriculture, restoration

References

Attenborough, D. 1995. The Private Life of Plants: A Natural History of Plant Behavior. London: BBC Books. 320 p.

Capsules launch seeds: Namaqualand mesems

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