Example of Epizoochory var. Anthropochory - Cenchrus spinifex burs on boot and trouser leg

Description:

Description: English: An example of epizoochory, variety anthropochory - the viciously spiny and Velcro-sticky burs of the American grass Cenchrus spinifex clinging to a boot and trouser leg after a walk through the beach vegetation of a sandy beach at the north end of the seaside city of Vieste on the Gargano peninsula of the Italian region of Puglia (Apulia). Such burs evolved to distribute the fruits of the plant via the fur or feathers of mammals and birds, but are equally effective in clinging to the skin, clothes and footwear of humans. Cenchrus spinifex is a noxious, non-native weed on the increase in Europe. It is a particular menace on beaches, where humans often go barefoot - children being particularly at risk. Many types of plant bur are capable of sticking to human clothing, but Cenchrus burs are somewhat unusual in being able to cling to human skin - which is relatively smooth compared to fur and feathers. They are able to do this because of the tiny hooks covering their vicious spines. These spines can inflict considerable pain upon a bare human foot and the burs which bear them are easily overlooked on pale sand, owing to their own pale colour (camouflage). Date: 23 September 2021. Source: Own work. Author: Flobbadob.