Scientist Found a Plant That Could Change the World

In the Mexican mountains, there exists an ancient species of corn that is twice the size of an average cob and has unusual aerial roots. These roots secrete a slime that could revolutionize agriculture by reducing the need for toxic chemicals. Locals have been cultivating this mysterious maize for over 2,000 years, passing down the tradition through generations.

A scientist in Oaxaca heard about this supersized corn and decided to investigate. When he finally saw it, he was amazed. The crop, standing 16 to 18 feet tall, had peculiar fingers extending from its stalks, dripping with a thick, gooey slime that acted as a natural fertilizer. This meant no more need for artificial fertilizers, which are both harmful to the environment and expensive. Most cereal grains can't fix their own nitrogen levels, requiring farmers to use nitrogen-rich fertilizers. However, this new corn's slime could solve a systemic problem in our food supply. It’s a biological breakthrough that could revolutionize agriculture.

Locals call this super plant "Olotón corn." It remained a secret to the rest of Mexico until the 1980s. It took another 30 years for researchers to study this remarkable maize. They knew they needed the community's help, so they built a lab where locals could contribute. The corn's slime contains bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form the plant can absorb, allowing it to draw 80% of its nitrogen from the air. This is essentially the holy grail of agriculture. However, disputes over ownership rights of this magical corn have arisen, with indigenous people asserting their cultural and heritage rights.

Despite its potential, Olotón corn isn't widely used yet because it doesn't meet modern industrial standards. Scientists are working on crossbreeding it with other varieties to combine the best traits. They've already halved the growing time and increased nitrogen absorption to 40%, but it will take a few more generations to stabilize a hybrid corn. Imagine if we could apply this atmospheric nitrogen fixation to other cereal grains like rice or wheat. This would significantly reduce the need for artificial fertilizers, benefiting the environment.

It's astonishing to think that a little-known maize from a misty mountain in Mexico could potentially solve world hunger. This highlights the importance of biodiversity for our survival. Speaking of plants that could help us in the future, Mars might be a perfect place for leafy green vegetables. The soil there is rich in iron, which means our favorite greens could thrive. With Earth's future uncertain, considering other planets as potential habitats isn't a bad idea. While most planets are too hot for life, Mars, despite being a cold desert now, was covered in water billions of years ago and possibly supported life. Scientists are studying which plants could grow in Martian soil, and it turns out that lettuce, onions, kale, peas, garlic, and even dandelions could survive there. Spinach is another great option, thanks to the iron in the soil. Who knows, maybe one day we'll be eating Martian microgreens if Olotón corn can't meet all our needs.

Another super plant that can help us in the future is bamboo. In countries like China, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia, bamboo shoots are a culinary favorite. They’re also popular in the islands and Bangladesh, where they are used in traditional dishes. Bamboo is delicious and packed with health benefits, providing 11% of your daily potassium needs in just half a cup. If you find fresh bamboo shoots, look for firm, heavy ones with a wide base. Avoid those that have turned green from too much sun exposure, as they will taste bitter. If you're adventurous, you can even harvest your own shoots in places like Hawaii.

Bamboo is not just about food; it’s the fastest-growing plant on Earth, with some types growing over a few feet in just one day. Bamboo is sustainable and renewable, spreading rapidly and forming forests much faster than trees. It’s a superhero in the plant kingdom, producing up to 35% more oxygen than a group of trees. Bamboo can replace wood in nearly anything, from paper and pulp products to flooring, musical instruments, furniture, and construction materials.

British researchers believe we are barely scratching the surface of what plants can do for us. First, we have super plants that are resistant to pests and diseases, thanks to plant breeders crossbreeding wild and domesticated crops. This global effort, led by countries like Brazil, China, and India, is essential as the world population approaches 9 billion.

Next, there are medicinal plants. With over 28,000 species having medicinal uses, only 16% are used in medicine. The industry is worth billions, and countries like Germany are embracing herbal remedies. However, caution is needed to avoid harmful products.

Scientists are also working on improving bananas by tweaking their genes to make them resistant to diseases and pests, allowing them to grow in harsher climates. This could mean more food for everyone.

Lastly, plant flammability is crucial in preventing wildfires. Fire is a natural process in some ecosystems, and scientists aim to identify plant families that can withstand fires and create resilient landscapes. These plants could serve as natural fire breaks, saving valuable resources.

One notable plant is the cinchona tree, which provides quinine, a cure for malaria. The Quechua people of Peru taught newcomers how to use it. While there are legends about its miraculous properties, the cinchona tree is genuinely a hero in the plant world.

If you enjoyed learning about these super plants, share this information with your friends and stay curious!