Know your Garden Microbes : Nostoc As gardeners, we often focus on the macro aspects of our garden such as the plants, trees, and shrubs. But, what about the tiny microbes that play a vital role in the health of our gardens? Today, we are going to focus on a particular type of bacteria that is often overlooked: Nostoc. What is Nostoc? N ostoc is a jelly-like microorganism commonly found growing on soggy lawns. While the discovery of the creature might be frightening for some gardeners, it poses no threat to plants or animals in the environment. Because the Nostoc grows in places where grass does not, it is likely to fill in any gaps left by the grass. Evidence of an imbalance in the ratio of fungus to bacteria can be easily identified. Figure 1: Nostoc Growing in the Garden. It was once believed that these strange-looking masses of matter came from the dust of shooting stars, which gave rise to the nicknames star jelly, star shot, and star slime beca...
Wokeism, a term that gained prominence in the 2010s, refers to a heightened awareness of social, cultural, and political issues, with a particular focus on combating racism and promoting social justice. This concept has become a focal point of both praise and criticism, dividing public opinion along ideological lines. In this article, we explore the two sides of wokeism and delve into the complexities of this social phenomenon. The Positive Side: Wokeism has undoubtedly played a crucial role in raising awareness about systemic inequalities and injustices that have long plagued society. By alerting people to racial prejudice, discrimination, and other forms of social disparity, it has fostered a deeper understanding of marginalized communities' struggles. Many proponents argue that being woke is a step towards progress, as it encourages individuals to empathize, listen, and take meaningful action to address societal imbalances. One of the significant achievements of Wokeism is its a...