#Mechanic North Sydney

[dynamicmobilemechanic]

Expert Mechanic North Sydney | Car Service & Repair

Find a trusted mechanic in North Sydney for quality car servicing and repairs. From routine maintenance to urgent fixes, our certified mechanics deliver fast, reliable service to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Book your appointment today.

[enginefirst]

https://www.bloglovin.com/@enginefirstaus/enhancing-convenience-efficiency-with-engine-12578728

[wenbochenphoto]

The fairy lantern (Corybas barbarae) is a small terrestrial orchid endemic to eastern QLD and NSW (north of Sydney). The hairy labellum is covered by a large, curved, and inflated dorsal sepal. The linear lateral sepals are tiny (2mm), and the minute petals (1mm) are hidden by the labellum. It is believed that fungus gnats are its pollinators. Apart from that, little is known about its reproduction and dispersal mechanism.

[blaze-aus-steam-lover]

Victorian Railways S class

Builder's photo of S300 Matthew Flinders, 1928

The Victorian Railways S class was a class of pacific type express engines, built in 1928 for Victorian railways (VR). Only 4 where built and none of them survived. They where built when VR was at its most successful period of time. They were the final design of the VR's Chief Mechanical Engineer Alfred E Smith, The design was influenced by Nigel Gresley's GNR A1 class.

The class was assigned the broad gauge leg of the Melbourne to Sydney, run for express passenger services. The class was the most prestigious class of locomotive that VR had until the early 1950s when diesel electric locomotives started to be used. They were the first pacific type locomotive that where ran by VR, as well as the first 3 cylinder locomotive type for VR. Known for their power and speed, in their first 10 years of service the time of the Sydney express service was reduced by 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The improvements to the service, the Sydney limited was replaced with the art deco streamliner the spirit of progress and the S class was fitted with streamlined casings to match the new set of carriages. They were equipped with long range tenders so that the 306.6km (190+1⁄2-mile) journey could be a non-stop run, making the service the fastest in Australia's for next 20 years.

The Spirit of Progress headed by S301 Sir Thomas Mitchell near Kilmore East in 1938

As the class only had 4, they were highly utilised, they annually ran up mileages double that of other classes and by 1954 had a combined total of approximately 9,200,000 km (5,700,000 miles). Their size and heavy axle load made the class unsuitable for regular service on any other lines that the north eastern line and in 1954 within the first 6 months of the B class diesel being on the spirit of progress roster by that April the S class had been all been withdrawn and scrapped.

The scrapping of the class was the catalyst for the rail preservation movement to lobby for the preservation of the remaining VR steam locomotives, which resulted in the establishment of the Australian railway historical society museum in williamstown north in the 1962. The numbers of the class where S300, S301, S302 and S303. S301 was the first scrapped in October 1953 and the S300 in September 1954. their names where S300: Matthew Flinders, S301: Sir Thomas Mitchell, S302: Edward Henty and S303: CJ La Trobe. they were named after prominent figures in early Victorian history.

Two of the four tender frames have been saved for preservation by the Newport Railway Museum and are currently used as workshop vehicles at the Newport Workshops. these are numbered VFGA3 & VFGA4. One tender frame and tank are stored by Steamrail Victoria. The fourth tender frame is owned by the Seymour Railway Heritage Centre, which now has had a tender body placed on it.

One of the S class locomotives' whistles survived and was fitted to the R class locomotive R707, the City of Melbourne, to recreate the sound of the original S class-hauled service. for the 50th Anniversary run of the Spirit of Progress on 14 November 1987, operated by the Australian Railway Historical Society.

[nosweatcleaning]

The Importance of Professional Commercial Cleaning for Sydney Businesses

A clean and well-maintained workplace is essential for the success of any business. It not only creates a positive impression on clients and visitors but also promotes a healthy and productive environment for employees. This article explores the significance of professional commercial cleaning services and how they can benefit businesses in Sydney.

Why Commercial Cleaning Matters

First Impressions: The cleanliness of your premises reflects your company's professionalism and attention to detail.

Employee Well-Being: A clean workplace reduces the spread of germs and allergens, leading to fewer sick days and higher morale.

Compliance with Health Standards: Certain industries require adherence to strict cleanliness standards to meet regulatory requirements.

Enhanced Productivity: A tidy environment minimizes distractions and promotes efficiency.

Challenges of In-House Cleaning

Resource Allocation: Assigning cleaning tasks to employees diverts them from their primary responsibilities.

Inconsistent Results: Without professional training, cleaning may not meet industry standards.

Lack of Specialized Equipment: Professional cleaners have access to advanced equipment and products.

Benefits of Outsourcing to Professional Cleaners

Expertise and Experience: Professionals are trained to clean efficiently and thoroughly.

Customized Cleaning Plans: Services can be tailored to the specific needs of your business.

Cost-Effective: Outsourcing eliminates the need to invest in cleaning equipment and supplies.

Flexible Scheduling: Cleanings can be scheduled during off-hours to minimize disruption.

No Sweat Cleaning: Your Commercial Cleaning Partner

At No Sweat Cleaning, we provide comprehensive commercial cleaning services to businesses across Sydney, helping you maintain a pristine and welcoming environment.

Our Commercial Cleaning Services

Office Cleaning: Regular cleaning of workspaces, meeting rooms, kitchens, and restrooms.

Carpet and Floor Care: Specialized cleaning for various flooring types to maintain appearance and longevity.

Window Cleaning: Interior and exterior window cleaning for a clear, streak-free finish.

Sanitization Services: Disinfection of high-touch surfaces to reduce the spread of germs.

Waste Management: Proper disposal of trash and recycling materials.

Industries We Serve

Corporate Offices: Providing services in North Sydney, Chatswood, and other business hubs.

Retail Spaces: Ensuring your store is clean and inviting for customers.

Healthcare Facilities: Adhering to strict hygiene standards required in medical environments.

Educational Institutions: Maintaining cleanliness in schools and universities.

Strata Properties: Offering strata cleaning services for common areas and facilities.

Customized Cleaning Plans

We understand that every business has unique needs. Our team works with you to develop a cleaning schedule and checklist that aligns with your operational hours and specific requirements.

Why Choose No Sweat Cleaning

Professional Team: Our cleaners are background-checked, trained, and committed to excellence.

Eco-Friendly Practices: We use environmentally friendly products that are safe for your staff and clients.

Quality Assurance: Regular inspections and feedback mechanisms ensure consistent service quality.

Competitive Pricing: We offer transparent pricing without compromising on quality.

Testimonials from Business Clients

"No Sweat Cleaning has been instrumental in keeping our offices spotless. Their attention to detail and reliability are unmatched." – Rebecca, North Sydney

"Our retail store has never looked better. The cleaning team is thorough and works around our schedule." – Mark, Chatswood

The Role of Cleanliness in Health and Safety

In the wake of global health concerns, maintaining a clean workplace is more important than ever. Regular cleaning and disinfecting help prevent the spread of illnesses, protecting both employees and customers.

Additional Services

Post-Construction Cleaning: We prepare newly built or renovated commercial spaces for occupancy.

Event Cleaning: Providing cleaning services before, during, and after corporate events.

Specialized Cleaning: Including upholstery cleaning, curtain cleaning, and more.

Commitment to Sustainability

At No Sweat Cleaning, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact. Our eco-friendly cleaning solutions and practices align with sustainable business values.

How to Get Started

Consultation: Contact us to discuss your cleaning needs and schedule a site visit.

Proposal: We provide a detailed proposal outlining services and costs.

Implementation: Our team begins providing services according to the agreed schedule.

Ongoing Support: We remain responsive to your feedback and adjust services as needed.

Invest in Your Business's Success

A clean business environment is a key component of operational success. By partnering with No Sweat Cleaning, you invest in the well-being of your employees and the satisfaction of your clients.

Contact Information

Phone: [Insert Phone Number]

Email: [Insert Email Address]

Website: www.nosweatcleaning.com

[ellsauto]

Ells Auto Mobile Mechanic: Your Trusted Volkswagen Service in North Sydney

Need a reliable Volkswagen service centre in North Sydney?

Look no further than Ells Auto Mobile Mechanic. We're your one-stop shop for all your Volkswagen service North Sydney.

Why Choose Ells Auto Mobile Mechanic?

Expert Technicians: Our team of highly skilled technicians is well-versed in the intricacies of Volkswagen vehicles. They have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and repair any issue, big or small.

Genuine Parts: We use only genuine Volkswagen parts to ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle.

State-of-the-Art Equipment: Our workshop is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment to provide efficient and accurate service.

Competitive Pricing: We offer competitive pricing on all our services, without compromising on quality.

Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. We strive to provide exceptional service and ensure your complete peace of mind.

Our Volkswagen Services Include:

Logbook Servicing: Adhere to your vehicle's service schedule to maintain its optimal performance and warranty.

Major and Minor Services: Our comprehensive service packages cover everything from oil changes to brake repairs.

Diagnostic Scans: We can quickly identify and resolve any underlying issues with your Volkswagen.

Engine Repairs: Our technicians are experts in engine repair and can handle any problem, from a simple tune-up to a major overhaul.

Transmission Repairs: We can diagnose and repair transmission issues, ensuring smooth gear shifts and optimal performance.

Brake Repairs: We offer reliable brake repair services to keep you safe on the road.

Electrical Repairs: Our technicians can handle a wide range of electrical issues, from faulty sensors to complex wiring problems.

Air Conditioning Servicing: Keep cool during the summer months with our professional air conditioning service.

Experience the Ells Auto Mobile Mechanic Difference

Book your next Volkswagen service with Ells Auto Mobile Mechanic today and experience the difference. Contact us to schedule an appointment or for any inquiries.

[ozglassau]

What Features Make Aluminium Glass Doors Ideal for North Sydney?

Aluminum glass doors are a great option for modern homes because they provide the optimal balance of style and functionality. Because of their elegant design, which amplifies natural light, the space feels airy and welcoming. Aluminum's resistance to corrosion and wear over time ensures longevity and minimal maintenance. Because of their superior insulation, these doors can reduce energy expenses and help control indoor temperature. Security features improve safety without sacrificing design, such as multi-point locking systems. Furthermore, its adaptability permits a range of arrangements, blending smoothly into any architectural style. Aluminum glass doors are a great option for modern living spaces because they effectively blend security, efficiency, and elegance.

Aluminum Windows and Doors Will Elevate Your Space

Aluminum windows and doors have become a general option in today's modern construction for together residential and commercial buildings. Aluminium Windows and Doors Sydney CBDoffer exceptional durability and energy efficiency in addition to aesthetic plea, right in the middle of the city. A bright and inviting atmosphere is created by their streamlined form, which maximizes natural light.

Mosman Aluminum Windows and Doors with Flexibility

Aluminium Doors and Windows Mosman offer Mosman proprietors the perfect blend of design and practicality. Even in coastal regions, these systems stand the test of time because of the corrosion-resistant qualities of aluminum. Populaces can initial their doors and windows to fit their distinct design tastes by choosing from a range of finishes and styles. Aluminum windows and doors may add stylishness to any house, even if you are going for a traditional or modern style.

Commercial Aluminum Doors' Significance in Vaucluse

The doors that a business in Vaucluse chooses can have a big impact on both appearance and usability. Commercial Aluminium Doors Vaucluse for businesses are made to withstand heavy traffic while yet offering security and usability. They have features that guarantee commercial spaces are safe, like reinforced frames and multi-point locking mechanisms. Because aluminum is lightweight, these doors are also simple to operate, which makes them perfect for busy spaces where convenience is essential.

Advantages of North Sydney Aluminum Glass Doors

In North Sydney, homeowners who want to make the most of their living areas are starting to use Aluminium Glass Door north Sydney more and more. Large views are provided by these doors, which smoothly blend internal and outdoor spaces, making them ideal for hosting guests or taking in the scenery. They require less heating and cooling systems because of their energy-efficient design, which helps to maintain pleasant inside temperatures. Furthermore, the sophisticated appearance of aluminum glass doors lends a sense of refinement to any house.

Commercial Aluminum Door Frames: Sturdiness and Design

The structural integrity of the entrance is important for commercial purposes. Commercial aluminum door frames are designed to be together aesthetically pleasing and strong. As these frames can be customized to fit diverse kinds and sizes of doors, they are perfect for any sympathetic of business building. Because of their robustness, they can resist the rigors of high-traffic regions without sacrificing style.

[dynamicmobilemechanic]

Mobile Auto Repair Service | Fast & Reliable Car Repairs

Get professional mobile auto repair service at your location. Our expert mechanics provide fast, affordable, and reliable car repairs and maintenance, saving you time and hassle. Enjoy top-quality service without visiting a workshop—book now.

[enginefirst]

Engine First: Your Trusted Mobile Mechanic in North Sydney

Introduction

When it comes to car troubles, there's nothing more frustrating than being stranded on the side of the road, especially in the bustling streets of North Sydney. Whether it's a sudden breakdown or a routine maintenance check, having a reliable and efficient mobile mechanic on call can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll introduce you to "Engine First," your trusted mobile mechanic service in North Sydney, and explore why they should be your first choice for all your automotive needs.

Who is Engine First?

Engine First is a dedicated team of highly skilled and experienced mobile mechanics serving the North Sydney area. With a commitment to providing top-notch automotive services, they've earned a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and quality workmanship. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, truck, or even a luxury vehicle, Engine First has the expertise to handle it all.

Why Choose Engine First?

Convenience at Your Doorstep

Engine First understands that your time is valuable. That's why they come to you, wherever you are in North Sydney. Whether you're at home, at work, or stranded on the roadside, their mobile mechanic service is just a phone call away. No more wasting time at traditional repair shops or waiting for a tow truck.

Qualified and Experienced Technicians

When it comes to your vehicle, you want to ensure that it's in capable hands. Engine First's team consists of certified and experienced mechanics who are well-equipped to diagnose and repair a wide range of automotive issues. From engine repairs and brake services to routine maintenance, they've got you covered.

Transparent Pricing

Engine First believes in honest and transparent pricing. They provide detailed quotes before starting any work, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges, and they strive to offer competitive rates that won't break the bank.

Quality Parts and Tools

To ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle, Engine First uses only high-quality parts and state-of-the-art tools. Their commitment to using top-tier equipment and materials guarantees that your car will receive the best possible care.

Emergency Services

Car troubles often strike when you least expect them. Engine First offers emergency roadside assistance to get you back on the road quickly and safely. Whether it's a dead battery, a flat tire, or any other unexpected issue, they're just a call away, 24/7.

Customer Satisfaction

Engine First takes immense pride in their dedication to customer satisfaction. Their goal is to build long-lasting relationships with their clients, which is why they go above and beyond to ensure your automotive needs are met promptly and effectively.

Conclusion

Engine First is not just a mobile mechanic service; they are your reliable partner for all things automotive in North Sydney. With their convenience, expertise, transparency, and commitment to customer satisfaction, they've earned their reputation as the go-to choice for anyone seeking reliable automotive services in the area. Say goodbye to the hassle of traditional repair shops and welcome the convenience of Engine First into your life. The next time your vehicle needs attention, remember that Engine First is always just a phone call away, ready to put your engine first.

For more information please visit the website

[classicjalopy]

The Long Way Euround – Day 6: Bombala to Sydney

Today was the final day of our big Classic Mercedes Road trip.   We started at 6:15AM in Bombala where it was 2 degrees outside.    We were down to 9 cars, as one of our drivers had some unexpected work commitments that came up, so had to leave his car in Melbourne.

We stayed in the pub in Bombala.  I generally only book places that have private bathrooms, so I must have missed that it didn't.   Having said that he rooms were very nice and the food was great.  The bed was the most comfortable of the trip.

As we drove out of Bombala, the sun was rising over the Monaro region.   The sunrise illustrated the high country landscape and the farms along the route.   The road was great and the cars were running well.

Originally we planned to drive to Bredbo, but we decided to refuel in Cooma instead.   This worked out well, as while Bredbo has a pie shop, it does not seem to have a service station.  In Cooma, we filled up all the cars and had breakfast at McDonalds. After all the troubles I had with my car the day before, it was going very well.  I was getting occasional noise from my rear left wheel when turning, but none of the previous issue.   The noise was also different.  The noise led me to believe that its probably not a wheel bearing issue.   I suspect part of the handbrake mechanism, perhaps that little spring, has come loose.  It is probably moving around as I corner and the ends of the lug nuts are scraping against it. A few people were very keen to get home by dinner time, and one of our group had a flight to catch, so we had fewer and shorter breaks today to move along.   Everyone was keep to complete the full route then be home for dinner. We continued north, through the outskirts of Canberra and then up through Gunning and Crookwell.   Crookwell was our lunch stop, at another Bakery.   The lamb pie was the best I've had all trip and the Vanilla slice was good, although a little too much icing for my liking. The road from Crookwell up to Georges Plain was excellent, full of long sweeping curves, elevation changes and great scenery.   The only downside was that there were many caravans on the road, and a Nissan Patrol that couldn't climb hills.   One of the guys is interested in buying a 280CE, so had a turn of the white car during this section and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was around here that the 380SEC started playing up more.   So far it had only given issues while idling.  However, on multiple occasions it cut out while at road speed.   Most of the time it would restart while coasting in neutral, but not always.  Luckily there was not much traffic on the road. As we passed through Perthville, we saw a 450SLC for sale by the side of the road.   One of the guys went back to have a look it it, and it was in a sorry state.   Rust in the firewall, chassis rails, holes in the floor and more.   It was a D-Jet car and a sad way for an early 450SLC to go.    I suspect its destiny is a wrecking yard like the one we saw on Saturday. After a good drive though to Lake Lyell, we all went our separate ways.   A couple of us refueled in Lithgow, and then took Bells Line of road back.   I hate the Great Western Highway with a passion, so Bells line was the obvious choice.  It was very foggy, but the traffic was light and it was a fairly relaxed cruise home the back way. After I rolled into the garage, I checked my odometer and I had travelled 3,883km in 6 days.  My 450SLC is now almost at 318,000km.   I have a few things to attend to.   Obviously the noise from the wheel, whatever it is.   The A/C, and the starter motor has started playing up, not always engaging. All the cars and drivers made it back home safely. Overall, the trip was great and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  It was a great break from work and we saw a lot of Australia I have never seen before.

Read the full article

[influencermagazineuk]

Climate Crisis Impacts Insect Colors and Reproduction, Study Reveals

A darker-colored ambush bug is better at snagging a mate than its brighter counterpart when it is chilly. Darker males can warm up more quickly in the early mornings, allowing them to become active while others are still warming up. This is just one example of how temperature affects insect coloring and their ability to mate, as highlighted in a new review article published in the journal Ecology and Evolution. However, scientists are still trying to determine how human-induced climate change, which is raising temperatures to unprecedented levels, will impact insects' reproductive behaviors. “On one hand, we might think insects are adapting to climate change, so we don’t have to worry about them,” said Mariella Herberstein, a behavioral ecologist at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, and one of the study’s authors. “But then we could realize they might struggle to find each other because they’ve lost important identification colors necessary for mating.” The prevailing theory among scientists, according to Herberstein, is that as temperatures rise, insects tend to produce less melanin pigment, resulting in lighter and brighter colors. Darker objects absorb more heat and warm up faster, while lighter objects reflect more heat and stay cooler longer. For example, the wing colors of Mead’s sulphur butterflies in North America have lightened over time as temperatures increased, according to a 2016 study. From the 1980s to the 2000s, the two-spotted ladybug became less likely to be black with red spots, shifting to red with black spots. Similarly, the dark spots on the subarctic leaf beetle's back have decreased with warmer springs. However, Herberstein’s team found that the pattern is not always straightforward. A follow-up study on Mead’s sulphur butterflies, examining over 800 specimens collected between 1953 and 2013, showed that in some areas, their pale yellow wings actually became darker over time. Additionally, one species of walking stick insect and one species of planthopper became greener and darker as temperatures increased, according to a 2018 study. “The mechanism isn’t so clear-cut – it’s confusing,” said Md Tangigul Haque, a PhD student at Macquarie University and one of the study’s authors. This complexity may be due to the limited data available and the similarity of studies focusing on similar insects in similar locations. Moreover, melanin has functions beyond heat absorption, including roles in immunological defenses and protection against ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Color also plays a crucial role in attracting mates, camouflaging from predators or prey, and helping individuals of a species recognize each other. Rising temperatures could alter these functions. “If we’re affecting their reproduction, we’re seriously impacting their population viability,” said Herberstein. “It is just one of those pieces that we need to figure out.” Understanding this issue could be key to determining how insects might cope with climate change, according to Michael Moore, an integrative biologist at the University of Colorado Denver. Moore, who was not involved in the latest research, observed in 2021 that male dragonflies were losing their wing color patterns in hotter climates, and he is investigating whether this affects their ability to find mates. “One thing that really stands out to me is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule,” said Moore. “We have a lot more work to do – we haven’t solved this one yet.” Read the full article

[mercedesservices]

The Things You Should Look For In A Mercedes Benz Service Centre In North Sydney

Buying a Mercedes Benz is often a cherished dream for many. This is not just a car but is packed with all the goodness of success and achievements in life. 

At the end of your purchase, you must remember that there is a Mercedes Benz service North Sydney, and you have to take your car from time to time. It is all for the good of an expensive automobile and its smooth functioning. 

The After Care 

When you buy a Mercedes Benz, it is a statement in itself. Nothing can be worse than a worn down or badly functioning Benz in your possession.  

Find out the best Mercedes Benz service North Sydney has to ensure that your car is in immaculate condition with proper aftercare. 

What Is After Care

When a car runs daily, some functions and features are overworked and need some looking after. It is not to say that they are not functioning well, but aftercare only improves it. 

This is called servicing in common terms, and you must have been told at the time of buying the Benz about the importance of timely servicing. 

Here are some of the things that will be done by a Mercedes Benz service in North Sydney when you visit them. 

Check for any damages and malfunctions

Carry out repairs and replacements if needed

Fine-tuning of the gearbox

 Oil check

Filter change 

Wheel alignments

Brakes and suspension checks and repairs

These are important functions among serval others that need to be checked for a safer drive on the road. 

Service Centres 

A service centre is where you must take the car for periodic check-ups. Some of these are authorised by the car companies themselves as the best place for the car. However, others have been in the business for long enough to have a reputation of their own. 

You need to get an annual service check done for a Mercedes Benz. 

Things To Look For In A Service Centre 

A few things can make a Mercedes Benz service North Sydney company stand out from among others. A reliable company that can efficiently take care of your expensive car should have the following. 

A professional team of mechanics to attend 

Well-equipped workshop

Latest equipment, machinery, and tools

Been in the business for years 

Affordable costs of services

Within close range for your access 

How Often Should You Service Your Car 

Most car companies specify the number of services to be done in a year. For Benz, you need to take your car for once to the Mercedes Benz service near North Sydney. 

If you are about to go on a road trip or long-distance travel in your Benz, it would be safer to take it for a check before you start.

Need For Services 

Taking your car to the Mercedes Benz service near North Sydney is important because it ensures a safer drive and a secure car. Being an automobile, and with constant use, there are chances of small defects and issues arising from time to time. 

A professional team of mechanics has the equipment to diagnose the smallest of malfunctions arising in any part of your car. They also have the knowledge and the tools to repair the same.

[dynamicmechanic]

Dynamic Mobile Mechanic is your reliable partner for top-notch automotive solutions in Sydney. Specializing in comprehensive truck repairs, our skilled Truck Mechanic Sydney is equipped to handle a wide range of issues, ensuring your fleet stays on the road with minimal downtime. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, we are dedicated to delivering efficient and effective services tailored to your truck's needs. In addition to our expertise in truck repairs, Dynamic Mobile Mechanic boasts a team of qualified BMW Mechanic Sydney. We understand the precision required for luxury vehicles, providing specialized care to keep your BMW running at its best. Our commitment to excellence extends to all makes and models, and our Mobile Mechanic Blacktown and North Sydney bring convenience to your doorstep. Our Mobile Mechanic Sydney services cater to your busy schedule, offering on-the-spot repairs and maintenance. Whether you're in Blacktown, or beyond, our team is just a call away. Experience the convenience and reliability of Dynamic Mobile Mechanic for all your automotive needs, from truck repairs to BMW Mechanic Sydney. Trust us to keep your vehicles in optimal condition, delivering quality service wherever you are in Sydney.

[kamreadsandrecs]

By Alice Klein

A flowering shrub in California’s Death Valley is one of the most heat-tolerant plants known to science and could hold clues for engineering crops that can cope with rising temperatures.

Most agricultural crops are unable to withstand temperatures above 35°C (95°F), meaning our food sources could be affected as climate change worsens.

Seung Rhee at Michigan State University and her colleagues wondered whether crops could be made more heat-resilient by incorporating traits from those that naturally like hot conditions.

Rhee became interested in a flowering shrub called Tidestromia oblongifolia after a colleague who had studied it in the 1970s mentioned it in a talk she attended. The plant is native to California’s Death Valley and appears to flourish in the famously hot desert. Death Valley is where the hottest-recorded temperature on Earth – 56.7°C (134°F) – was measured in 1913, and it reached 53.3°C (127.9°F) last month. “When I heard about this plant, I thought, ‘Wow, that’s amazing, I can’t imagine any organism being able to survive under those conditions, let alone thrive’,” says Rhee.

She and her colleagues studied the plant by growing it in a chamber in their laboratory, first at moderate temperatures, then in conditions mimicking summer in Death Valley. As a comparison, they also grew a closely related plant that is native to Mexico called Amaranthus hypochondriacus.

Under the Death Valley conditions, A. hypochondriacus ceased growing altogether within a few days, but T. oblongifolia flourished, tripling its biomass in 10 days. Even at 50°C, the upper limit of the chamber, T. oblongifolia still exhibited effective photosynthesis. The researchers have just built a new chamber that can be ramped up to 60°C to see how far they can push the plant.

A closer look at T. oblongifolia when it was grown in the Death Valley conditions revealed some of the nifty tricks it deploys to cope with extreme heat. For example, its leaf cells became smaller, increasing the density of its chloroplasts, where photosynthesis occurs. At the same time, many of the leaves’ mitochondria, which provide energy, moved closer to the chloroplasts. Together, these processes may have increased the plant’s ability to photosynthesise in the harsh conditions, says Rhee.

Similarly, under increasing heat, the plant’s chloroplasts morphed from a standard disc shape into a highly unusual cup shape. This may have allowed them to hold on to carbon dioxide and prevent leakages more effectively while they were carrying out photosynthesis, whereby CO2 is converted to sugars, says Rhee.

The researchers also identified thousands of genes in the plant that increased or decreased in expression as temperatures rose. By comparing them with similar genes that have been studied in other plants, they deduced that many were probably involved in boosting photosynthesis, protecting against heat stress and carrying out detoxification and repair mechanisms.

The team is now trying to pinpoint the most important genes responsible for the plant’s heat tolerance in the hope of transferring them to agricultural crops.

Brian Atwell at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, and his colleagues have previously showed that a conventional short-grain rice variety can be made more heat-tolerant by inserting a gene that they discovered in a species of Australian wild rice called Oryza australiensis. The gene evolved in the wild rice to help it photosynthesise in Australia’s hot tropical north.

When grown at 45°C in a lab, conventional rice that had a copy of the wild gene yielded up to 150 per cent more seed than unmodified rice, which struggled to grow in the heat. This opens up the possibility of making other crops more resilient to hotter climates by transferring genes from O. australiensis, T. oblongifolia or other heat-loving plants, says Atwell.