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The natural defenses of dead plants -- which are designed to inhibit enzymes in the gut to prevent digestion -- would be toxic for any other animal. But a group of researchers from Imperial College London have discovered new molecules in the worm gut, named drilodefensins, that can counteract the toxins, breaking them down the way that dish liquid breaks apart grease.
"Without drilodefensins, fallen leaves would remain on the surface of the ground for a very long time, building up to a thick layer," said Jake Bundy, an author of the study and a professor at Imperial College, in a statement. "Our countryside would be unrecognizable, and the whole system of carbon cycling would be disrupted."
The humble worm is amazing. It can turn lawn waste and food scraps into rich black soil in a matter of weeks.
(Score: 3, Insightful) by fishybell on Thursday August 06 2015, @10:21PM
I know I've been waiting with baited breath to find out how worms digest leaves.
In all seriousness though, the title is a bit on the click-baity. Interesting article. Next time, let it stand on its own.
(Score: 2) by Phoenix666 on Thursday August 06 2015, @11:04PM
The article's author [washingtonpost.com], and composer of said title. Let 'im have it.
Washington DC delenda est.
(Score: 2) by frojack on Thursday August 06 2015, @11:42PM
I was left wondering why any species would waste energy developing "natural defenses of dead plants".
It makes no evolutionary sense.
No, you are mistaken. I've always had this sig.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Friday August 07 2015, @04:09AM
There is no reasoning in evolution. Shit happens, and somethings stick around just because.
(Score: 0) by Anonymous Coward on Friday August 07 2015, @03:42AM
I wondered where you came up with that.
bated [google.com]
-- gewg_