Image 1 of 1
GreatFallsBacklitSkunkCabbage3BWa.tif
Black and white macro image of a skunk cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus) leaf backlit by sunset reflecting off a forest stream, Great Falls National Park, Great Falls, Virginia. Besides being noted for its odor, the skunk cabbage is also known for being among the small group of plants that exhibit thermogenesis. Uncoupling of cellular respiration in the mitochondria creates temperatures 15-35 degrees Celsius above air temperature, allowing the flower to grow through still frozen ground and helping to spread its scent and attract insect pollinators.
- Copyright
- © 2011 Whimbrel Nature Photography / Elijah Goodwin
- Image Size
- 2592x3888 / 28.9MB
- www.bestnatureimages.com
- Contained in galleries
- Great Falls National Park Mar27, Wetland Plants