How plants tell time - Dasha Savage
329,768 Views
14,613 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Morning glories unfurl their petals like clockwork in the early morning. A closing white waterlily signals that it’s late afternoon. And moon flowers, as their name suggests, only bloom under the night sky. What gives plants this innate sense of time? Dasha Savage investigates how circadian rhythms act as an internal timekeeper for flora and fauna alike.
WatchThink 5 Multiple Choice &
3 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
0 Open Discussions
3 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
0 Open Discussions
Circadian rhythms are especially important in the beginning of a plant's life. Until their phytochromes perceive the presence of light, seed sprouts grow tall and long, and do not produce any green pigment. As soon as they reach light, they begin to produce green pigment and broader leaves. What are the advantages of producing green pigment only after the presence of light?
Login to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Dasha Savage
- Director Avi Ofer
- Animator Avi Ofer, Axel Bunge
- Script Editor Emma Bryce
- Sound Designer Stephen LaRosa
- Narrator Addison Anderson
