Microorganisms are critical to the health of plants and thus to our food security. However, things are not always on a friendly basis. Quite contrary: on the one hand, plants can form so-called symbiotic communities with microscopic organisms that improve the plant's nutrient supply and protect it from pests; on the other hand, pathogenic microorganisms can cause massive damage to plants and turn out to be deadly enemies.
The exhibition Friends and Foes - Mikrofotografien des TRR356 presents both sides of plant-microbe interactions in a fascinating way. Researchers from TRR356 at the Faculty of Biology use their photographs to provide a microscopic view of biological processes that are normally hidden from the human eye. What may initially look like abstract art due to bizarre shapes, structures and garish colors, shows cellular changes, for example through defense mechanisms of plants or infection strategies of microorganisms, in large format. The exhibition explains in an understandable way for adults and children what is hidden behind the detailed images.
The exhibition will be in German. Admission to the exhibition is included in the regular admission ticket to the Botanical Garden. You can find more information on the website of the research network.