Unveiling the Explosive Seed Launch of Squirting Cucumbers
A study by the University of Oxford reveals the unique seed dispersal mechanism of the squirting cucumber, which ejects seeds in a high-speed jet of mucus. This Mediterranean plant's method, involving fluid transfer and pressurization, could inspire bio-engineering innovations. Researchers used experiments and mathematical models to understand how the plant achieves seed ejection speeds of up to 20 meters per second, distributing seeds in a wide range. The findings highlight the plant's near-optimal dispersal system and potential applications in precise medication release.