Ever heard of a squirting cucumber? Scientists @TheUniversityOfManchester have uncovered the secrets behind one of nature’s quirkiest plants - the squirting cucumber. While most plants rely on external forces such as animals, wind, or water to spread their seeds, this cucumber – scientifically known as Ecballium elaterium - launches them at high speed in a pressurised jet, sending seeds over 10 metres from the parent plant. The fruit has long intrigued scientists for its dramatic seed dispersal