Prof. Meret Huber speaks at the Hessian State Museum in Darmstadt about plant defense and sustainability.
Darmstadt. As part of the lecture series of the Darmstadt Natural Science Association, Prof. Meret Huber , Director of the Botanical Garden of the University of Mainz, will give a lecture Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the lecture hall of the Hessian State Museum Darmstadt (HLMD) . The topic of her lecture is: "Why do plants produce bioactive substances?"
Plants produce an astonishing variety of chemical compounds that are not directly required for their growth. Many of these substances—such as caffeine, morphine, or natural rubber —are used by humans. Professor Huber will use her research to explain the ecological functions these substances fulfill and how they protect plants, such as dandelions , from insect damage.
A particular focus is on the bioactive substances in the milky sap of the dandelion , whose effects Professor Huber investigates in her studies. Furthermore, she will present her plans bioactive substances in other plant species , especially in duckweed – an approach that could contribute to the more sustainable production of such substances.
The lecture is aimed at anyone interested in natural sciences. Registration is not required.
Featured image: Generated with AI
