Publications by authors named "Bjoern Melzer"

Article Synopsis
  • English ivy (Hedera helix) utilizes specialized adventitious roots to climb on various surfaces, yet their biomechanical properties and effectiveness in attaching to different substrates have not been extensively researched.
  • The study examines the structure and performance of these roots, revealing their stiffer characteristics, high tensile strength, and significant extensibility compared to standard roots, indicating a strong connection between the climbing plant and its support.
  • Findings suggest a co-evolution between English ivy and its host trees, with unique properties of attachment roots that differentiate them from typical subterranean roots, while also drawing parallels to other climbing plants like Galium aparine.
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English ivy (Hedera helix L.) is able to grow on vertical substrates such as trees, rocks and house plaster, thereby attaching so firmly to the surface that when removed by force typically whole pieces of the climbing substrate are torn off. The structural details of the attachment process are not yet entirely understood.

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