The Secret Sounds of Stressed Plants

Plants make ultrasonic popping sounds when they are distressed, according to a study by researchers at Tel Aviv University. The sounds are inaudible to humans but may be a call for help. The researchers found that plants emit noises when they are cut, dehydrated or infected. The sounds are produced by air bubbles in the plant's xylem tissue, which moves water. The researchers hope their findings will help farmers identify when their plants need water or are infected. They also plan to investigate whether damaged plants communicate with animals and other plants.