(Life On Earth [VHS] series, Part 3)
How plant life overcame the difficult problem of migration from sea to land and the impact of this development on insect locomotion is examined using micro-photography of several species of primitive plants. The program goes back and forth between parts 6 & 7 of the 16mm film version of the 'Life On Earth' series.
Part 6, The First Forests: Simple algae at the ocean's edge spread to all waters, pioneering a great revolution that was to lead to the greening of the earth. David Attenborough details the evolution of plants, examining fossils in Greece and Wales and the remarkable horse-tail plants in South America. Important aspects of reproduction are presented as the methods advanced to those of the conifers. Concludes with a panoramic view of the giant sequoias in California (25 minutes).
Part 7, The Coming of the Insects: The development of insects is traced from pre-historic times. Fossils are abundant because millions of insects have been perfectly preserved in the resin of trees. Mechanics of flight are discussed and determined to be far too complex for man to emulate. Insects evolved wings in order to feed on the upper-most portions of plants. Plants adapted to the feeding habits of insects by producing excess pollen, then by developing brilliant colors and strong scents to attract the pollinators. Thus the advent of blossoming--a mystery which to this day, scientists cannot fully explain (22 minutes).
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