As bees and hummingbirds flit from flower to flower, greedily sipping nectar in exchange for pollination, the animals often get another treat: alcohol. In the first broad analysis of the alcohol content of flower nectars, University of California, Berkeley biologists found detectable alcohol in at least one flower of 26 of the 29 species of plants tested. While most samples had very low levels, almost certainly from yeast fermenting the sugars in the nectar, one contained 0.056% ethanol by weight: about 1/10 proof.
Is nectar naturally spiked? What widespread low-level ethanol could mean for pollinators
The Owl Picks
-
Florida sits uncomfortably close to the top of every list nobody wants to lead: states where homes are most likely to harbor or develop mold. Recent analysis from Anderson Air, cross-referencing climate records, housing ages, [...]
-
The Dominican Republic is not just about stunning beaches; it’s full of unique places that reveal the country from a completely different perspective. If you’re staying in Punta Cana, you can easily turn your vacation [...]
-
Active Kinetic 1 technology is revolutionizing technology by providing a sustainable and efficient way to power various devices. This innovative tech harnesses natural sources of movement and transforms it into usable free electricity. How Does Active [...]
-
Back pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to enjoy everyday activities. The good news is, you don’t have to rely solely on medications to find relief. At livingnwell.com, we believe in the power of [...]
-
One highlight of my Grade 3 life was dying from dysentery at the hands of a video game. I was ahead on schoolwork, and allowed to use the classroom computer to pioneer a family across [...]
