Why Don’t Spiders Get Stuck in Their Webs?​

By RISC | 3 days ago

What’s stronger than steel and more flexible than rubber? Spider silk!​Spider silk is incredibly tough. If a strand were as thick as a pencil, it could stop a Boeing 747 in mid-flight. Think about Spider-Man shooting his webs when fighting villains or swinging between buildings… Those webs are incredibly strong!But there’s more to spider silk than just its strength.​Spider silk has different types of threads – sticky and non-sticky. Each thread serves a unique purpose. Spiders have 7 silk-producing glands in their abdomen, and each gland produces a different type of silk:​• Glandula Aggregate: Produces sticky silk.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – major: Produces strong, durable silk for walking.​• Glandula Ampulleceae – minor: Produces temporary walking silk during web-making.​• Glandula Pyrifomes: Produces adhesive silk for attachment.​• Glandula Anciniformes: Produces flexible capture silk for catching prey.​• Glandula Tubiliformes: Produces silk for building nests or egg sacs.​• Glandula Corontae: Produces sticky, adhesive silk.​Since spiders create these fibers, they know exactly where to walk on their webs without getting stuck. Their legs also have tiny hairs and special hooks that allow them to walk confidently on the sticky strands.​Beyond catching insects or prey, spider silk has another intriguing function: it helps spiders sense their environment through vibrations. With such incredible properties, spider silk has inspired many innovations, including bulletproof vests, safety belts, and even surgical sutures.​Nature’s wonders surround us every day. Stay tuned for more on the world’s amazing creatures from RISC.​​Story by: Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC​​References:​Esme Mathis. (2022). Australian Geographic. "Unspinning the secrets of spider webs." From: https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/news/2024/07/cobra-bite-treatment/ (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​http://oservice.skru.ac.th/ebookft/601/chapter_7.pdf (Accessed on 1 August 2024)​

Watch Out for Animal Visitors in the Rainy Season…

By RISC | 2 months ago

Rain in the rainy season can bring some wildlife into our homes and gardens that isn’t always welcome. But we can stay safe with some simple steps.​​Thailand’s rainy season is already underway. In addition to taking extra care when we travel, we should stay alert for various creatures. RISC has tips for dealing with 3 types of creature so both you and they can avoid harm. ​Snakes can be a concern. They typically live in bushes, trees, and damp undergrowth. But they can come out in search of rats. Keep your home clean to ensure there are no food sources or hiding spots. If you find a snake near your home that you fear might be dangerous, you can call 199 for immediate assistance.​Rove beetles are another worry. They need humidity to breed and prefer the night. They produce a toxin called paederin that can cause skin irritation, redness, and blisters. Keep all your windows and doors closed and check your bed or seating area often. If you meet one, blow or shake it away without touching it.​Tiny creatures like centipedes and scorpions can also be found in damp corners and leaf piles. Their toxins can harm humans and pets. An accidental touch can induce allergies. And, in extreme cases, severe allergies can result in death.​During the rainy season keep your home and garden tidy, eliminating corners like piles of materials, wood chips, and leaves. Repair cracks and soil subsidence to keep these creatures out.​Kotchakorn Rattanama, Biodiversity Researcher, RISC ​Reference:​Health Literacy and Communication Promotion Division, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health​

Trees Make the Best Fences

By RISC | 4 months ago

Many people experience privacy issues in their homes. But walls and fences can be costly. How can we solve this problem?​A low-cost option is to create a tree fence.​Fences make homes more comfortable. And planting trees benefits us in many ways, including physical, scenic, mental, and economic. Planting trees as a barrier stops people looking in. The plants can hide unattractive areas and reduce noise too.Trees with a lot of leaves and thick foliage in lines 15-30 meters wide and at the appropriate height for the sound source can absorb up to 5-10 dB. Their colors also enhance the view.​When choosing trees for a fence or along a fence, start with dense shrubs with many leaves that are easy to maintain. Plants can be put into 4 categories.​- Plants can be used to conceal undesirable views or use as a fence such as Ochna integerrima, Flacourtia indica, Uvaria siamensis, Dasymaschalon lomentaceum Finet & Gagnep, Wrightia religiosa Benth., Harrisonia perforata (Blanco) Merr., Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack., Streblus asper Lour., Carmona retusa (Vahl) Masam., Ficus Benjamina L., Bauhinia acuminata, Phyllodium elegans (Lour.) Desv., Melastoma malabathricum L., Olax scandens Roxb., Vietnamosasa pusilla, Rhodamnia dumetorum (DC.) Merr. & L.M.Perry, Memecylon edule Roxb., Holarrhena curtisii King et Gamble, Gardenia carinata Wall. ex. Roxb., Prismatomeris tetrandra (Rox.b.) K.Schum. var.malayana (Ridl.) Johans. and Chamaecyparis lawsoniana.​- Plant lower-level plants or ground cover in the foreground can create an open space and vista, such as Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Smith., Crinum amoenum Roxb., Alpinia conchigera Griff., Pavetta indica L., Rhinacanthus nasutus (Linn.) Kurz., and Tacca leontopetaloides. ​- Ornamental plants for home decoration tend to be flowering plants or small plants such as Curcuma sessilis Gage., Hegnera obcordata (Miq.) Schindl, Geodorum densiflorum (Lam.) Schltr., Barleria strigosa Willd., Ageratum conyzoides L., and Costus speciosus (Koen.) Sm.​- Unique plants and tree species with distinct traits include Phyllodium elegans (Lour.) Desv., Melastoma malabathricum L., Dasymaschalon lomentaceum Finet et Gagnep, Commelina diffusa, Gardenia carinata Wall. ex. Roxb., Antidesma acidum Retz., Uraria crinita (L.) Desv. ex DC., and Acalypha wikesiana Muell-Arg.​If you’re interested in creating tree walls, consider using these plants. You could end up with a magnificent fence and more privacy.​Story by Patcharin Pumjae, Intern form Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University and Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division and Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC​References:​http://forprod.forest.go.th/forprod/techtransfer/document/%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%B9%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B7%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%9D%E0%B8%B6%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%A1/%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B8%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%A3/%E0%B8%9B%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%A1%E0%B9%89%E0%B9%83%E0%B8%99%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%95%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B7%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B9%83%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B8%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%A0%E0%B8%B9%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%96%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%A2%E0%B9%8C.pdf ​http://old-book.ru.ac.th/e-book/a/AT459/at459-1.pdf ​https://medthai.com/ ​http://dspace.bu.ac.th/bitstream/123456789/4903/1/Saksorn_Chan.pdf ​https://readthecloud.co/best-plants-for-fence-line/ ​Tanaka, K., Ikeda, S., Kimura, R. & Simazawa, K. (1979). The function of forests in soundproofing. Bulletin Tottori University Foresta, 11, 77–102. ​Cook, D.I. and Van Haverbeke, D.F. (1972). Tree, shrub and landforms for noise control. Journal of soil and water conservation 27, 259-261.​

Which Trees to Plant by Buildings?​

By RISC | 7 months ago

In the last article "Should We Grow Trees by Buildings?" (read more at https://bit.ly/3UpPWTH), we saw the positive and negative effects of having trees nearby. But we can boost the upside by choosing the right species.​A tall-short, thick-thin, and wild-shaped tree arrangement enhances both beauty and shade. Trees can influence how wind enters the structure. Planting shrubs outside can help control dust. Perennials with tall trunks allow air to flow in at ground level. Dense 2-meter-tall shrubs can block or moderate wind. Big trees to the west can reduce afternoon heat.​Trees with hairs on their leaf surfaces can protect allergy sufferers by trapping particulates. They’ll also help regulate the air quality around the structure. These trees will best trap particles if planted in rows and on many levels.​Perennials like Gardenia sootepensis Hutch. and Schoutenia glomerata, shrubs like Nyctanthes arbor-tristis and Holarrhena pubescens, and ivy plants like Afgekia mahidoliae, Thunbergia grandiflora, Combretum indicum, and Petrea volubilis are examples of trees that trap particles. This group of ivies can also be utilized as a door arch for decoration. Take care if you dislike strong-smelling plants and select perennial to avoid or lessen the risk of big trees collapsing. Trees like Fagraea fragrans and Fagraea racemosa Javanica  have deep roots and won't harm the building's construction.​The advantages of growing trees near buildings have already been covered. There are many reasons why buildings should have trees around them. RISC encourages everyone to plant trees. We can start small indoors or start from our homes.​Story by Chananya Kasempiyarom, Intern from Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, and Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division and Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC​References: ​https://www.baanlaesuan.com/134892/plant-scoop/dust_prevent​https://www.banidea.com/shade-trees-with-non-invasive-root-systems/​The essential guide to Architecture and Interior designing from Instagram : 07sketches​

Should We Grow Trees by Buildings?

By RISC | 8 months ago

Trees have both positive and negative aspects. They’re attractive, clean the air, reduce the temperature but can also cause problems.​Here are some views from students, engineers, architects, biologists, and officials about trees near buildings.​More than 80% said trees near buildings provide shade, visual comfort, air purification, look attractive, and cool indoor and outdoor temperatures. 40% said trees provide habitats for small animals. Others mentioned topics including fruits, gardening, privacy, and flood mitigation.​But trees can also have a negative impact. 70% mentioned poisonous plants. 60% cited fallen leaves and branches. 50% reported root problems with buildings. Other issues include excessive odor from flowers, blocked perspectives, and trees falling on properties.​There are ways to mitigate and prevent such problems. ​A key solution is to choose appropriate trees, avoiding deciduous trees like Albzia saman (Jacq.) Merr., Millingtonia hortensis L. F., and Alstonia scholaris to prevent fallen leaves, strong odor from flowers, and broken branches. Tabernaemontana divaricata (L.) R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult., Ficus annulata Blume., Ficus annulata Blume can be more suitable.​Understanding each type of tree and how to care for and prune it can help them last longer and cause fewer problems.​Stay tuned for more information on how and where to plant trees to best benefit.​Story by Chananya Kasempiyarom, Intern from Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University and Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division and Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC ​

Plant-Human Coexistence Indoors

By RISC | 9 months ago

Why do we plant trees?​There are lots of reasons, such as beauty, shade, heat reduction, dust protection, improved views, and fruit.​People also see plants as companions, even if they can’t walk or jump. A study found that looking at greenery makes us feel calmer. Watching plants grow, with new leaves or flowers, can boost our mood.​Plants photosynthesize through sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Some plants can cope with littl­e light, without needing direct sunlight or a light bulb. These plants are popular for use indoors.​Plants that do well indoors include Ficus lyrata Warb., Epipremnum aureum (Linden & André) G.S.Bunting, Zamioculcas zamiifolia (G.Lodd.) Engl., and Philodendron spp. Some plants can absorb toxic substances indoors, such as formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, benzene, ammonia, and alcohol. Air-purifying plants include Dracaena trifasciata (Prain) Mabb., Ficus elastica Roxb. ex Hornem., Monstera spp., Chamaedorea seifrizii Burret, and Spathiphyllum spp.​Air-purifying plants can help eliminate airborne contaminants as well as providing a green oasis. But the indoor atmosphere is very different from the world outdoors. Indoor plants need looking after. Too much humidity, for example, can lead to mold. Don’t overwater plants and check them regularly.Indoor plants could be another step toward real human-plant coexistence. Living in harmony with nature entails taking care of one another. We should take good care of plants since they benefit us.​Story by Teerajet Iamphan, Intern from Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC ​References:​JOMM YB. 2023. https://www.baanlaesuan.com/139157/plant-scoop/air-purification-tree​AP THAILAND. 2021. https://www.apthai.com/th/blog/design-and-decor/designanddecor-air-purifying-plants-for-bedroom​MONIQUE C. VALERIS and KATARINA AVENDAÑO. 2023. 22 Best Indoor Plants for Any Room. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/advice/g1285/hard-to-kill -plants/​Agnes van den berg and Magdalena Van den Berg. 2015. Health benefits of plants and green space: Establishing the evidence base, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282426219_Health_benefits_of_plants_and_green_space_Establishing_the_evidence_base​

How Trees Filter Our Air​

By RISC | 10 months ago

The PM2.5 season is back. You may already be using air purifiers at home to filter out all the particles.​But we shouldn’t overlook how trees can help us as living air filters.​Trees help humans in many ways, as a source of oxygen, food, places to relax, and even cleaner air.​Research shows that trees trap particles with their leaves, bark, and branches, reducing particles by 10-50% and the temperature by 0.4-3 °C. Airborne particles stick to the cuticle layer or outer epithelium of leaves, which is wrapped in epicuticular wax and covered in trichome hairs. Rain washes these particles away into the ground or drains. Photosynthesis also absorbs particles, carbon dioxide, and various toxic gases before releasing oxygen and water vapor to improve air quality.Trees with dense canopies, lots of branches, smooth and thick leaf surfaces, and good pollution resistance are best at filtering particles. Foliage at multiple levels, such as ground cover, shrubs, and trees, will improve particle trapping efficiency.​Here are some trees that suit different locations:​For a shady area, plant Streblus asper, Murraya paniculata, and Ficus annulata. For an open area, plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Delonix regia, Butea monosperma, Azadirachta indica, Peltophorum pterocarpum. For sidewalks, plant Casuarina equisetifolia, Schoutenia glomerata ssp., and Adenanthera pavonina. For decoration, plant Epipremnum aureum, Dracaena trifasciata, Chlorophytum comosum, or Ficus lyrata Warb.​Trees can also inspire new ways to improve our indoor air.​Story by Patcharin Pumjae, Intern form Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University and Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division and Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC

How Dust Can Harm Your Indoor Plants

By RISC | 11 months ago

Indoor plants are increasingly popular, not only for their beauty but their benefits for health.​Each plant has its own requirements. But being indoors has an unavoidable impact on growth. Dust from human activities in cities not only harm us but also our plants.​We generally find few particles on the leaves of outdoor plants since they’re washed away by rain. Indoor plants, on the other hand, don’t receive rainwater.​A study suggests particles on leaves can obstruct stoma, preventing respiration, transpiration, or gas exchange, as well as impacting photosynthesis. The more dust on the leaves, the less efficient the photosynthesis process. Plants will absorb less water, resulting in dehydration and other problems.​Another common mistake is to clean particles from leaves by spraying water or wiping with a damp towel. This method can harm the plant. Fungi thrive on the moisture that remains on the leaves. Indoor plants have high humidity without sunlight to remove fungi and reduce moisture on leaf surfaces. Extra wetness should be avoided.​If leaves get dusty, use a duster and carefully brush the plant to avoid bruises. To avoid mold, use a dry cloth. Spray water on the foliage of semi-outdoor plants or wipe the leaves with a moist towel.​As we can see, particles impact plants too. We shouldn’t overlook this issue for healthy plants, another step toward true coexistence between people and plants.​Story by Teerajet Aeimphan, Intern from Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, and Thanawat Jinjarak, Senior Researcher, Environmental Department, Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC​References:​Agnes van den berg and Magdalena Van den Berg. 2015. Health benefits of plants and green space: Establishing the evidence base. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282426219_Health_benefits_of_plants_and_green_space_Establishing_the_evidence_base ​Shamaila Zia-Khan et al., 2015. Effect of Dust Deposition on Stomatal Conductance and Leaf Temperature of Cotton in Northwest China. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/7/1/116#:~:text=Leaves%20covered%20with%20dust%20receive,plant%20biomass%20formation%20and%20yield. ​A. Moradi et al., 2017. Effects of dust on forest tree health in Zagros oak forests. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320308250_Effects_of_dust_on_forest_tree_health_in_Zagros_oak_forests ​University of Georgia Extension. (unknown). Growing Indoor Plants with Success. https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B1318&title=growing-indoor-plants-with-success

Plants Need to Sleep Too

By RISC | 11 months ago

People and animals both need to sleep and rest. The longer we spend in complete darkness, the better we sleep. If someone switches on the light, we’ll likely find it hard to get to sleep again.​But did you know that plants also need to sleep?​Plants make food through photosynthesis, turning it into energy at night. Plants, like humans, need darkness.​Light is a type of energy that plants use to grow. Not taking time to relax is like constantly using an electrical appliance until it breaks down.​​Research into Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh.), a flowering plant in in the Brassicaceae family, found that the chemical Constans (CO), which controls blooming, is only created at night. With even the slightest light disruption, Arabidopsis will immediately stop generating CO, resulting in blooming failure.​Light at night affects people a bit. But it has a big impact on flowers. The plants need to produce substances to bloom. Just a small amount of light will frighten the plant and these chemicals won’t be produced so that the plant can’t bloom.​Long periods of darkness are just as crucial for plants as they are for humans or animals. We need to pay more attention to light to create green space with healthy plants.​Story by Teerajet Iamphan, Intern from Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University and Thanawat Jinjarak, senior researcher Environmental Department Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC​​References:​MANISHA MINNI. (2566). Phytochrome: Definition, Mechanism, Role, Functions. https://www.embibe.com/exams/phytochrome/ ​Xiaojing Yang et al., 2009. Conformational differences between the Pfr and Pr states.  https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0902178106 ​Andrew. Unknown. Plant experiment (photosynthesis & respiration). https://www.picotech.com/library/experiment/plant-measurements-during-day-and-night ​Karen J. Halliday et al, 2009. Integration of Light and Auxin Signaling. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2882117/ ​QS Study. (2566). Types of Plants according to the Length of Day Light. https://qsstudy.com/types-plants-according-length-day-light/ ​BBC. (2566). Photosynthesis and respiration in plants. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zvrrd2p/articles/zjqfsk7 ​JU'S. (2566). CAM Pathway. https://byjus.com/neet/short-notes-of-biology-for-neet-cam-plants/#CAM%20Photosynthesis ​Sang Yeol Kim et al., 2008. Regulation of CONSTANS and FLOWERING LOCUS T Expression in Response to Changing Light Quality. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2528114/  ​Russell Jones & team. The Molecular Life of Plant. p. 282

Biophilic Design: Living In Harmony with Nature

By RISC | 1 year ago

“Deep in the human heart, there is innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life as it balances the mind and helps reduce stress.” Edward O. Wilson, American biologist who defined “Biophilia” in 1984 .​"Biophilic Design" was developed to connect with the natural environment and enhance the well-being of building residents with these basic principles:​1. Using natural elements in design, such as earth tones, water, sunlight, and real plants to alleviate stress and create relaxation.​2. Using natural shapes in design, such as botanical patterns, ovals, curves, spiral patterns, or animal patterns, as well as in sculpture and decoration.​3. Providing a natural sensory user experience with sight, sound, smell, and touch.​4. Creating relationships with space by designing a diversity of light, such as natural light, diffused light, shadows, space harmony, and blending indoor and outdoor areas.​5. Place-based design through emphasizing connections to distinct ecological and geographic factors, incorporating local culture and ecosystems to promote emotional recovery.​6. Promoting respect for and attraction to nature's beauty to foster environmental values.​Biophilic design has been frequently used in architectural design since people began to pay more attention to health. Many studies show the direct and indirect benefits of green space, such as 10% absenteeism among workers without access to nature. Views of nature in a hospital room can reduce patient recovery time by up to 8.5%.​WELL Building Standards is another standard that recognizes the value of nature in the MIND category (for more information, visit https://bit.ly/464PsoS). There are additional prerequisites for Biophilic Design:​• Natural materials, colors, shapes, or images inside the structure​• Plant pots, plant walls, or natural light• Access to natural areas for building users with at least 75% of working areas within 33 feet of trees, water sources, or visible natural landscape• At least 70% of the area with access to natural areas outside the building, with natural components such as tree cover in outdoor areas, and green area within 650 feet of the building's perimeterStory by: Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​References:​Elzeyadi, I. “Daylighting-Bias and Biophilia: Quantifying the Impacts of Daylight on Occupants Health.” In: Thought and Leadership in Green Buildings Research. Greenbuild 2011 Proceedings. Washington, DC: USGBC Press. 2011. ​Ulrich, R. S. “View through a window may influence recovery from surgery” Science, Vol. 224. 1984.