Scanning electron micrograph of a fruit of Galium aparine, entangled in the fibres of a Shetland wool garment. The picture shows, lower right, the small hooks that extend from the surface of the fruit. G. aparine, commonly known as goosegrass or cleavers, is a sprawling annual weed, widely distributed throughout the temperate world. All aerial parts of the plant are covered with hooks, which enable it to ascend to heights of a metre or so into taller vegetation, such as garden hedges. The dry fruits, each containing one seed, are easily detached and adhere to the fur of any passing animal, including human clothing. By this means the seeds are dispersed, often over considerable distances. The attachment mechanism is analogous to that of a Velcro fastener. G. aparine is a very common weed of gardens, but easily removed by hand pulling, preferably before the fruits form. Mag x 55 at 10x8