Sensors to measure plants’ environmental responses under development

Shoots (Credit: Mycatkins, via Flickr)

A group of European researchers is developing a set of microsensors that embed into plants to measure their responses to environmental changes, according to Tree Hugger. They plan to share findings of their work publicly.

The scientists are trying to tap into the natural signals that plants use to communicate with one another. These include the release of chemicals that warn other plants of impending attacks from insects or other threats.

The project is called PLEASED, for PLants Employed As SEnsing Devices. It has already garnered $1.46 million in funding from the European Union.

Image: Shoots (Credit: Mycatkins, via Flickr)