Mimosa pudica: experimental analysis of mechanical stimulation of plant movement

• Main Author: Ang, Zheng Yi
• Other Authors: Li Hua
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/71935
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Mimosa Pudica is an interesting plant that is commonly found in Singapore. The plant exhibit biological clocks which allows to leaves to close during the night and open in the day. This specialised movement of closing and opening of the leaves also extent to mechanical stimulation. Studies have showed that the plant can be stimulate by mechanical, electrical, heat and light means. However, there are little studies conducted to shows the plant fatigue cycle of the movement. Therefore, this report aims to provide understanding on the plant behavior by studying the fatigue life cycle on how it is able to keep up with the constant external touch stimulation on the petiole. Experiments will be conducted by touching the petiole. The duration of the opening and closing process will be timed and recorded as well as discussed in this report. The results were then compared with different parameter and it is concluded that the plant showed signs of fatigue after numerous stimulation on the petiole. This study will aid to better understand the mechanism behind the plant structure.