image: These are exploded and unexploded (round) capsules of Sphagnum bartlettianum. The shape change from round (unexploded) to cylindrical or vase-shaped (exploded) shows how the contents of the capsule are compressed contributing to the 2-5 atmospheres of pressure that build up internally that drive the explosion and formation of the vortex ring. This image relates to an article that appeared in the July 23, 2010, issue of Science, published by AAAS. The study, by Dr. D.L. Whitaker at Pomona College in Claremont, Calif., and colleagues is titled, "Sphagnum Moss Disperses Spores with Vortex Rings." view more
Credit: Image courtesy of Joan Edwards