Plants Count Without Neurons

Updated: 2026.04.01 2H ago 1 sources
A reported experiment on Mimosa pudica found anticipatory leaf movements that correlate with the number of recent light–dark events and follow a logarithmic learning curve. The authors argue the pattern implies event‑tracking or 'counting' by non‑neuronal cells, suggesting information processing mechanisms beyond neurons. — If true, this reframes cognition as a broader biological phenomenon, affecting neuroscience, AI metaphors, and public views on intelligence and learning.

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Can Plants Count?
Jake Currie 2026.04.01 100% relevant
Peter Vishton-led Cognitive Science paper and Nautilus coverage reporting that mimosa leaf movements anticipated lights‑on only after predictable sequences and that behavior fits a logarithmic learning curve; quote: 'tracking the number of events' (Vishton).
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