Featured Research: Plants & Soil

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UP-led study finds aloe plant could impede life cycle of malaria-carrying parasite

Experts at the University of Pretoria (UP) are a step closer to finding a drug that could prevent transmission of the malaria-carrying parasite Plasmodium falciparum by thwarting its life cycle.

Infographic

How is malaria transmitted?

Researchers at the University of Pretoria have investigated Aloe marlothii and found that natural active ingredients in the roots of this aloe species have anti-plasmodial properties.

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UP microbiologists discover rich diversity of life in Antarctica’s cold, dry soils

The ice-free areas of Antarctica were initially thought to be devoid of life, but with the advent of modern genetic technologies, scientists now know that microorganisms have adapted to living in this extreme environment.

Web Series

What do microorganisms do in Antarctica's soil?

The Dry Valleys of East Antarctica are the most extreme example of polar soils; these valleys are arguably the coldest and driest deserts on Earth. In this episode, Prof Don Cowan explains why these microorganisms are important and what they do in this environment.

Gallery

A day in the life of a research scientist in Antarctica

Explore this gallery to experience a day in the life of research scientists in Antarctica. Antarctica's ice mass is enormous, and melting continental ice will have dramatic effects on oceanic flow patterns and global seal levels. Antarctica is also the last “pristine” continent in that it remains largely unaffected by human activity, which is why conservation is imperative.

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UP scientists contribute to a key global study on the effects of grazing in deserts

Two University of Pretoria scientists have contributed to the first-ever global field assessment of the ecological impacts of grazing in drylands.