Talk on pollenators Learn about the sex lives of insects
Image: Staff reporter
The Franschhoek Theatre will host Professor Bruce Anderson, from the University of Stellenbosch, on Wednesday March 26, at 6.30pm, for a talk titled "The Incredible Journey of Pollen".
This event will delve into the complex reproductive strategies of plants and the cutting-edge nanotechnology used to track individual grains of pollen. While most flowers have both male and female reproductive parts, assessing their reproductive success is not straightforward.
A flower’s female success can be measured by counting seeds, but determining its male contribution has usually required a botanical ‘paternity test’.
Professor Anderson’s work employs fluorescent quantum dots to follow the movement of pollen and uncover the fierce competition among grains striving to fertilise seeds. An evolutionary ecologist, he investigates how plants interact with animals to disperse seeds and pollen.
Though Professor Anderson originally studied animal behaviour, he later shifted focus to plants, examining the ways they attract and retain pollinators. His research explores how these interactions shape evolution and biodiversity.
His talk will cover fascinating aspects of plant reproduction, including the differences between left- and right-handed flowers and the surprising ways plants ensure their pollen reaches its destination.
This event is part of the SmallTalX series, which brings experts and the public together inan informal setting. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the speaker while enjoying snacks and wine.
Previous events have featured discussions on a range of topics, including ancient Rome, the MeerKAT radio telescope in the Karoo, invertebrates in the sub-Antarctic islands, general artificial intelligence, white shark behaviour and Cape Town’s caracal population.
Tickets cost R250, which includes wine, snacks, and a Q&A session. Book at www.franschhoektheatre.co.zaor or email smalltalx.info@gmail.com