Plant behaviour and intelligence
Trewavas, A. JAuthor
This study takes as its theme the statement by the Nobel prize winning plant biologist, Barbara McClintock in 1984; 'A goal for the future would be to determine the extent of knowledge the cell has of itself and how it uses that knowledge in a thoughtful manner when challenged'. The response to 'challenge' is behaviour and 'thoughtful' responses are intelligent and inextricably linked to fitness. Cellular knowledge derives from the complex self-organising system that constructs the cell from its constituent molecules. This book fleshes out McClintock's superb insight into plant cells and organisms.
Bibliographic Level Mode of Issuance: Monograph
Includes bibliographical references and index.
This study takes as its theme the statement by the Nobel prize winning plant biologist, Barbara McClintock in 1984; 'A goal for the future would be to determine the extent of knowledge the cell has of itself and how it uses that knowledge in a thoughtful manner when challenged'. The response to 'challenge' is behaviour and 'thoughtful' responses are intelligent and inextricably linked to fitness. Cellular knowledge derives from the complex self-organising system that constructs the cell from its constituent molecules. This book fleshes out McClintock's superb insight into plant cells and organisms.
Description based on print version record.
A feeling for the organism -- Plant behaviour foundations -- The origins of photosynthesis : what are the salient characteristics of living systems? -- The origins of photosynthesis : the evolution of life and photosynthesis -- Why did plants become multicellular? -- Convergent evolution is common in plant systems -- Are angiosperms more complex than mammals? -- Plant behaviour : first intimations of self-organization -- The varieties of plant behaviour -- The self organizing plant : lessons from swarm intelligence -- Self-organization : cambium as the integration assessor -- Self-organizing capacity in leaf behaviour -- Self-organization and behaviour in root systems -- Self-organization in response to gravity -- Signals other than gravity -- Behavioural characteristics of seeds : elements of dormancy -- Games plants play -- Competition and cooperation between individual plants for mates and territory : the recognition of self -- The nature of intelligent behaviour : cognition or adaptation? -- Brains and nerve cells are not necessary for intelligent behaviour -- Intelligent genomes -- Cellular basis of intelligent behaviour -- Cell organization and protein networks -- Instinct, reflex, and conditioned behaviours : characteristics of plant behaviour? -- Intelligence and consciousness -- Intelligent foraging?
Plant physiology
Plant Physiology
Botany
Earth & Environmental Sciences