Forest Ecosystems
Articles tagged with Forest Ecosystems
Deforestation lowers threshold for Amazon degradation to below 2°C warming
Deforestation reduces Amazon's resilience to global warming, with around two-thirds of the forest at risk of degradation at 1.5-1.9°C of warming. Haltting deforestation and restoring forests can strengthen the Amazon's ability to withstand climate change.
How trees in urban areas are key to cooling down a warmer world
A study by Ohio State University found that certain tree species, such as red maple and northern catalpa, are more resilient to heat and water stress. Urban forests can provide natural cooling, reducing summer electricity usage, but require careful management and investment in irrigation systems.
Why are mountain forests in Mexico and Central America hotspots for oak trees? New study led by The Morton Arboretum shows most definitive answer yet
A new study by The Morton Arboretum reveals that oaks rapidly diversified in the Americas when they encountered high-elevation terrain, forming a unique biodiversity hotspot. This is supported by data from 322 of the world's approximately 450 oak species, with Mexico and Central America home to at least 160 different oaks.
Dense rainforest canopy an acoustic ‘information highway’ for predator warnings
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz's Forest Fear Lab discovered that the dense upper story of the Amazon carries the cries of frightened birds to other animals, forming a shared information network. Small bird species are key drivers of this acoustic 'information highway,' with larger species also joining in.
Deforestation policies are failing to protect against a potentially bigger threat to the Brazilian Amazon
A study found that policies reducing deforestation in Brazil have failed to stop forest degradation, a slower and more dangerous form of destruction. Forests are becoming increasingly fragile due to fires, logging, and other human activities.
Birds caught stealing from their neighbors
A new study reveals that birds in Hawaiian forests engage in kleptoparasitism, stealing materials from neighboring nests. The behavior, common among the scarlet I'iwi and crimson Apapane, could threaten species already under stress due to habitat loss and climate change.
Smarter forest practices could help protect B.C. forests from wildfire and climate stress, new research suggests
A new book by Dr. Suzanne Simard outlines a different approach to forest stewardship, emphasizing the importance of retaining mature trees and protecting soils, biodiversity, and underground fungal networks. The research shows that intact and lightly harvested forests store more carbon and support stronger recovery over time.
ForestTalks webinar explores integrating Earth observation and national forest inventories across Europe
The webinar highlighted the potential of combining NFI field data, EO disturbance products, and national statistics for robust forest carbon monitoring. Continental-scale carbon balance analysis showed a trend towards neutral over the past decade, with large interannual variability.
Nitrogen addition reshapes forest microbes: A five-year insight into community dynamics
A five-year study reveals that prolonged nitrogen deposition affects subtropical forest soil microbiomes, with a dynamic temporal shift in microbial community assembly and network stability. Dissolved organic matter quality is crucial in predicting bacterial network complexity.
Biochar reshapes ant societies, revealing hidden ecological trade-offs in soil restoration
A new study reveals that biochar significantly enhances ant ecological functions as ants' social behaviors and nest site selection specificity improve with moderate levels of biochar. However, higher doses lead to reduced survival, weakened nest construction, and decreased social interactions.
Wildlife-friendly landscapes dramatically boost biodiversity in fragmented forests
A new study reveals that improving surrounding landscape quality can increase bird species survival in forest remnants, with modest increases in nearby tree cover substantially boosting numbers. This contradicts traditional views on habitat fragmentation and highlights the importance of a more hospitable matrix for conservation.
Assessment of nature in the US now available for public comment
The US Nature Assessment Report documents human impact on nature, including resource extraction and habitat loss, but also shows restoration and Indigenous stewardship approaches can help turn things around. The report highlights the importance of farmer involvement in protecting ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.
Unlocking longevity insights from ancient bristlecone pine
Researchers sequenced the Great Basin bristlecone pine genome, revealing genes associated with disease resistance and longer telomeres, potentially holding clues for understanding longevity in other species. The study provides a reference genome sequence that can be used to inform modern genetic discovery.
Forest damage in Europe to rise by around 20% by 2100 even if warming is limited to 2°C
Forest damage in Europe is projected to increase by up to 20% by 2100 under all climate scenarios. Annually disturbed forest area could rise from 180,000 to 370,000 hectares per year, increasing pressure on other sectors to reduce emissions.
Modern twist on wildfire management methods found also to have a bonus feature that protects water supplies
Forest thinning found to improve wildfire risk reduction and hydrological resilience, increasing snowpack depth by 30% on north-facing slopes. The treatment recovered about 12.3 acre-feet of snow-stored water per 100 acres, equivalent to roughly 15 Olympic swimming pools per square kilometer.
Hunting pressure is shrinking safe space for mandrills in Equatorial Guinea
Research reveals that hunting pressure is shrinking safe space for mandrills in Equatorial Guinea's Monte Alén National Park. Mandrills are adapting to changing conditions by focusing on high-quality sites with limited human impact.
Lasers and drones assess health of world forests and help track climate change
A pilot initiative led by University College London is using highly detailed 3D scans to estimate tree structure, volume, and stored carbon in tropical rainforests. This data helps scientists better understand how much biomass forests contain, essential for tracking climate change.
MAPPI: a new system to learn how a plant's leaves, stem and roots mutually communicate under environmental stress
Researchers developed MAPPI, a system that enables real-time visualization of how a plant's leaves, stem, and roots communicate with each other in response to environmental stress. The system reveals bi-directional communication between leaves and roots, overcoming limitations of traditional microscopy.
Forest soils increasingly extract methane from atmosphere
Researchers at the University of Göttingen found that forest soils in south-western Germany absorb more methane as climate conditions become drier and warmer. This contradicts current international meta-analyses, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring for assessing the effects of climate change.
Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum pledge to safeguard threatened species for Reverse the Red Day
The Chicago Botanic Garden and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect endangered species such as Cucharillo and Stone's Paphiopedilum through collaborative conservation strategies. These institutions will co-host the 9th Global Botanic Gardens Congress in 2027 to accelerate crucial conservation work.
Just the smell of lynx can reduce deer browsing damage in recovering forests
Deer behavior changes when exposed to the smell of predators like lynx and wolves, reducing browsing damage to tree saplings. The study suggests using large carnivores as a natural solution to mitigate overbrowsing in recovering forests.
To reach net-zero, reverse current policy and protect largest trees in Amazon, urge scientists
A recent study finds that the largest trees in Peruvian Amazon store disproportionately large amounts of carbon, making it difficult to achieve net-zero emissions. Protecting these trees can help conserve biodiversity and forest microclimates against future climate change.
Shrubs curb carbon emissions in China’s largest desert
A 40-year greening project in China's Taklamakan Desert has successfully reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and increased solar-induced fluorescence, indicating a measurable carbon sink. The project demonstrates the potential of afforestation to mitigate climate change, despite being only a small dent in global emissions.
US forests are locking in major carbon emissions
A new study found that US forests have stored more carbon in the past two decades than at any time in the last century. Natural forces such as temperature, precipitation, and carbon fertilization are among the largest contributors to carbon gains, while human drivers like tree-planting and forest management also play a role.
Mosquitoes’ thirst for human blood has increased as biodiversity loss worsens
Scientists found that mosquitoes in the Atlantic Forest prefer feeding on humans due to convenience as biodiversity dwindles. This preference increases the risk of pathogen transmission and highlights the need for targeted surveillance and prevention actions.
Increased deciduous tree dominance reduces wildfire carbon losses in boreal forests
Research found that deciduous tree dominance reduces wildfire carbon losses in boreal forests, storing more carbon above ground and releasing less in deep organic soils. This shift could help slow climate warming by reducing carbon emissions per unit area burned.
Forest biomass becomes surprise carbon hero—if industry can cut costs and scale up
A data-rich review suggests that forest biological resources can offset up to 750 gigatonnes of CO₂ by mid-century if processing efficiency rises and green premiums fall. Engineered beams, biochar, and bioethanol can store carbon for decades, offering a 74% lifecycle GHG cut versus gasoline.
Fungus turns bark beetles’ defenses against them
Researchers discovered that an insect-pathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana can turn the defensive substances of bark beetles into more toxic aglycones. These aglycones serve as an effective defense against fungi and increase fungal infestation, particularly in beetles with high phenol content.
Leaves’ pores explain longstanding mystery of uneven tree growth in a carbon-enriched world
A new model by researchers at Duke University explains how trees grow differently under rising carbon dioxide levels. The study found that an engineer's view of water movement in leaves can help explain tree growth patterns in a carbon-rich atmosphere.
Wildfires reshape forest soils for decades
Research in Chile's national parks shows that wildfires significantly alter soil structure and nutrient cycles, affecting ecosystem resilience. Humid temperate forests recover faster than mediterranean woodlands due to fire-adapted trees and higher rainfall.
Accurate information on forest biodiversity from aerial images using AI
A new AI method using aerial imagery can reliably identify aspen trees and standing dead trees, crucial indicators of forest biodiversity. The technique has been proven effective in all seasons and can be scaled up for monitoring forest environments.
New camera traps snap nearly three times more images of endangered Sumatran tigers than before
Researchers found a robust and healthy population of critically endangered Sumatran tigers in the Leuser ecosystem, with over 282 high-quality images captured. The team identified 27 individuals, including females with high densities indicating a thriving social system and adequate habitats.
The ship-timber beetle's fungal partner: more than just a food source
A symbiotic fungus helps the ship-timber beetle survive by accumulating nutrients and producing antimicrobial compounds that inhibit competing fungi. The fungus also adapts to its acidic environment by acidifying it with acetic acid, thriving at low pH levels.
Researchers unveil first high-resolution maps of China's forest diversity patterns
Research team created first high-resolution maps of tree species richness and structural diversity in China's natural forests. The study reveals that precipitation seasonality and forest age drive these two dimensions, with projections suggesting future biodiversity gains and challenges.
Deer slow down forest diversity – even in the light
Researchers found that roe deer restrict natural forest regeneration, despite abundant light. The team's study suggests that controlling deer densities is crucial for maintaining tree-species diversity in forests.
Forest structure and recent infestations drive bark beetle damage clustering in Finland
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that bark beetle damage clusters in Finland tend to concentrate in groups near previous infestations and mature stands. The research analyzed forestry land data and identified forest characteristics increasing the likelihood of a stand becoming part of a cluster.
Predicted CO2 levels cause marked increase in forest temperatures
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels can cause leaf temperatures to rise by up to 1.3°C in forests, with a greater impact during extreme heatwaves. This change is likely caused by reduced transpiration and could have significant effects on the water cycle globally.
Thinning turned an upland forest into a temporary carbon source and made a peatland forest an even stronger carbon source
Research at the University of Helsinki reveals that forest thinning can temporarily boost carbon storage in upland forests, while drained peatlands become stronger net carbon sources due to slower tree growth and increased decomposition. The study highlights the importance of adapting management practices to different forest types.
Study paints detailed picture of forest canopy damage caused by ‘heat dome’
A recent study by Oregon State University and the US Forest Service analyzed satellite imagery to assess the impact of the 2021 'heat dome' on western Oregon and Washington's forests. The analysis revealed that 293,546 hectares of forest were damaged, with iconic species like western redcedar and hemlock being disproportionately affected.
Eyes above the trees
Researchers at Kyoto University used LiDAR to measure the crown structure of 4,326 canopy trees across 23 forest census plots in Japan. The analysis revealed that canopy trees account for about 75% of total forest biomass across diverse forest types, providing a foundation for estimating total forest biomass and supporting sustainable ...
Forests recovering from acid rain mine rocks for nutrients, leading to less acidic streams and more acid-sensitive soils
A long-term study in the White Mountains of New Hampshire found that recovering forests are using roots to mine minerals for nutrients, leading to improved stream pH but depleted soil fertility. This process enhances mineral weathering, which can make forests more vulnerable to future pollution.
Climate change drove extreme wildfire seasons across the Americas, making burned areas around 30 times larger
Human-driven climate change makes wildfires in parts of South America and Southern California much larger and more destructive. Climate models warn that severe heatwaves and droughts will make extreme wildfires more frequent and intense worldwide.
Fire provides long-lasting benefits to bird populations in Sierra Nevada National Parks
Low to moderate-severity fires boost bird populations with effects lasting up to 35 years, contrary to traditional fire suppression practices. Forest managers can use controlled burns and pyrodiversity to benefit majority of birds in the forest.
The essential role of the urban tree microbiome: A key to city health
A new study by Boston University researchers examines the impact of urban environmental stressors on tree growth and ecosystem services. The study found that urbanization disrupts the tree microbiome, leading to a loss of symbiotic relationships and an accumulation of pathogens, which can have negative effects on human well-being.
Restored mangrove forests could act as important carbon stores, per study examining Vietnamese mangrove carbon since 1900, but they might not have “normal” ecological function
A study examined Vietnamese mangrove carbon since 1900 and found restored forests to act as important carbon stores. However, the study suggests that these ecosystems might not possess 'normal' ecological functions.
How could AI help (and hurt) forestry?
Forestry professionals express concerns about AI's impact on land-management decisions and policy, citing 'black box' problems and data quality issues. However, they see potential for AI to support tasks like data analysis and task automation.
Heat-stressed Australian forests are thinning fast, producing carbon emissions
Heat-stressed Australian mountain ash forests are losing a quarter of their trees by 2080 due to global warming. The natural thinning response to temperature stress may decline large-scale tree-planting initiatives to reduce atmospheric carbon levels.
Climate change is on track to shift key tree species like beech and Norway spruce north: European forests will be completely changed by the year 2100
A global study predicts that many tree species will struggle to survive due to climate change, with some forests collapsing entirely. Researchers recommend planting a diverse mix of native species to mitigate these effects.
Changes to El Niño occurrence causing widespread tropical insect and spider declines
A recent international collaboration found significant biodiversity loss in multiple types of arthropod, including butterflies, beetles, and spiders, in tropical forests. The study suggests that climate change, specifically changes to the El Niño cycle, are causing these declines.
Biodiversity matters in every forest, but even more in wetter ones
Research by the University of Michigan reveals that biodiversity is crucial in forests, particularly in wet climates, where it promotes tree growth. In contrast, its impact is negligible in wet years within those same wet climates.
High-elevation tropical forest soils in Colombian Andes are rich in carbon from past fires
Research found that high-elevation tropical forests in the Colombian Andes store significant amounts of pyrogenic carbon (PyC) due to past fires. The study analyzed soil samples from different elevations and land-use types, revealing PyC stocks nine to ten times higher in High Andean forests than in warmer regions.
More than just larks and owls!
Researchers used AI to analyze bird songs and calls of 53 European forest bird species, revealing far more activity types than previously thought. The study showed that some species are active around dawn and twilight, and their song patterns need adjustment for breeding bird surveys.
Research shows aspen forests slow wildfire spread
A new study from Colorado State University and Western Colorado University found that aspen forests can act as natural firebreaks, slowing fires' spread. Aspen trees with high moisture content and chemical differences reduce flammability, making them more resistant to burning.
Young forests could help to capture carbon in climate change fight
Researchers discovered that young secondary forests, aged between 20 and 40 years, exhibit the highest rates of carbon removal – locking away up to eight times more carbon per hectare than newly regenerating forests. Protecting existing young secondary forests offers immediate substantial carbon removal benefits.
This might be America's first campus tree inventory
Northern Arizona University is taking stock of its 5,000-6,000 trees to advance sustainability and carbon sequestration. The project will provide hands-on research opportunities for students and shed light on the trees' ability to mitigate climate change.
Thunderstorms are a major driver of tree death in tropical forests
A new study reveals that thunderstorms are a major cause of tree death in tropical forests, explaining patterns of mortality and carbon storage. The research highlights the growing threat of storms to trees and the planet's carbon stores.
Isolated Torrey pine populations yield insights into genetic diversity
A study of isolated Torrey pine populations has identified key genes that enable trees to adapt to local conditions, but may inhibit their long-term adjustment to a new environment. The research, published in Evolutionary Applications, suggests caution when introducing new genetic variation to conserve species with low genetic diversity.
Lizards of Madagascar
A study found that three lizard species in Madagascar consume fruits from over 20 plant species and expel viable seeds, indicating their potential crucial role as seed dispersers. This discovery is significant as environmental degradation affects large frugivores like lemurs, but lizards can continue to inhabit degraded environments.
Why forests aren’t coming back after gold mining in the Amazon
Gold mining in the Amazon depletes land of its water, creating harsh conditions where replanted seedlings can't survive. Researchers suggest flattening sand piles and filling in ponds could improve moisture retention and boost regrowth.