What Makes Fresh Cut Grass Smell?

The video explains the fresh scent of cut grass, which is due to green leaf volatiles (GLVs) released when grass is injured. These compounds serve as signals to attract predators of herbivorous insects, aiding in plant defense. The video also discusses various plant signaling molecules like jasmonic and salicylic acids, which help plants protect themselves. Research on a mutant strain of corn that cannot produce GLVs shows increased insect damage, highlighting the importance of these compounds in nature.

What new insight or understanding did you gain from this video?