interaction

Posts 25429 Featured Image Ergot Fungus Moth Honeydew

Why do ergot fungi produce toxins? Unraveling the evolution of ergot alkaloids from a biological perspective.

Ergot fungi are a type of fungus that infects grasses, including cereals. The ergot alkaloids produced by this fungus are known to be highly toxic substances that have strong physiological effects on humans and livestock. Historically, consuming rye and other plants contaminated with ergot fungi has caused symptoms such as convulsions and gangrene...

2026.10.31

fungi

What's the difference between catmint and catnip? How does it differ from mint? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Why does it intoxicate cats? And is it actually a mosquito repellent?!

Catmint and catnip belong to the genus Nepeta in the Lamiaceae family and are perennial plants widely cultivated in Japan as herbs or for ornamental purposes. While their large corolla with a protruding upper lip is a distinctive feature, their most notable characteristic is the "silver vine reaction" that intoxicates felines...

2025.03.13

plant

Posts 4155 Featured Image Terrestrial Aquatic Insect Identification Books

Summary of Identification Literature for Terrestrial and Aquatic Insects: List of Field Guides and Papers Containing Identification Keys

This article compiles literature for identifying insects. The focus is primarily on literature containing identification keys that allow for reliable species identification. While all taxonomic groups are covered, this is based on personal needs and observations, and therefore is not a comprehensive collection...

2022.10.06

animal

[Seed Plant Encyclopedia #039] What are the species of the Lauraceae family? Photo list

The Lauraceae family consists of evergreen or deciduous woody plants. Their leaves are arranged alternately or oppositely. Many species are fragrant. Approximately 31 genera and 2,000 species are known from tropical to temperate regions, with 9 genera and 29 species distributed in Japan. Several species are cultivated. This article focuses on plants of the Lauraceae family...

2022.07.28

Seed Plant Encyclopedia

Research has revealed that "intraguild predation" occurs universally between spiders and wasps, potentially contributing to ecosystem stability! [Press Release]

In the "Ecological Information" section, at the request of the lead author, Mr. Daisuke Noguchi, I assisted with the introduction, discussion, and literature review on a paid basis. This research revealed that intraguild predation between spiders and wasps occurs universally, and that there is a possibility of "symmetrical intraguild predation" between spiders and wasps...

2022.03.31

animalecosystem

What are the differences between Arisaema ringens, Arisaema serratum, and Arisaema serratum? The flowers have a terrifying life cycle: they trap fungus gnats for pollination! Are the fruits a favorite of birds?

Arisaema ringens, Arisaema serratum, and Arisaema serratum are representative species within the Arisaema genus. The Arisaema genus is extremely similar in shape, making it a difficult group to distinguish. Frankly speaking, distinguishing between species in the Arisaema genus is extremely difficult. Even in terms of classification, regional variations...

2021.09.21

plant

Were woodlice eating "slime molds"? Their mysterious ecology and observational records (published in 'Ecological Notes')

This article contains the full text of the article "Woodlice Prey on Plasmodium spp. in Kyoto Prefecture," which was published in the following magazine. Printed and PDF versions are available for purchase via the link below. Please report any errors in identification or information so we can correct them in subsequent issues. (funct...

2021.02.26

animal