Western blue-eyed grass is a common wildflower on the west coast of the US and an expected sight when walking around in the hills of Half Moon Bay, CA. When I first saw the petals of this flower through the eyes of the Foldscope though I was surprised to find something completely unexpected. With the microscope I was able to see trichome-like structures evenly dispersed throughout the periphery of the flower petals that left me wondering what their purpose might be. I also noticed that a small number of pollen granules sit at the very ends of the pointed tips of the petals.
@Josh. This is truly fantastic, I love the way you presented this. We have a community run pollen roster, could I include your material in the database? You will of course be credited as the source.
see
https://microcosmos.foldscope.com/?p=4186
Laks
Hi Laks,
Of course, please do. I just sent a few photos to the yahoo email.
Josh
Incredibly beautiful depiction @Josh.
I wonder what gets the pollen attached to the tips of the petals. Is that an accident or do pollen have a role. Also; the trichomes are incredible clear and beautiful. They are perfectly positioned to do a time lapse; if you could leave the foldscope and your phone attached to the flower for a little bit 🙂
Welcome to the foldscope community..
cheers
manu