Articles tagged with Forests
A study reveals how human activities can diminish the usefulness of ornamental traits like colorful feathers as signals of fitness. In contrast, a new field experiment shows that invasive yellow starthistle responds favorably to increased carbon dioxide levels. Plant breeding experts emphasize its potential to bring about a more positi...
Restoring forests and planting trees on farms can greatly improve food security by providing a source of income, food, and fuel for households. In dryland areas like the Horn of Africa, forests serve as a crucial defense against poverty and provide critical sources of moisture and nutrients in the soil.
A recent study published in the Journal of Forestry reveals that US national forests can help Americans meet guidelines for regular physical activity. The study found that activities such as hiking, walking, and fishing account for about two-thirds of all visits to national forests, resulting in annual energy expenditures equivalent to...
Researchers at UC Riverside suggest controlling firewood movement can contain the goldspotted oak borer invasion, which has killed over 80,000 oak trees. The beetles, native to Arizona, likely traveled on infested firewood, targeting coast live oaks and other species with no natural resistance.
A recent study reveals that humans are the primary agents of exotic earthworm dispersal in North America's forests. Non-native species can accelerate organic material breakdown, reducing habitat for animals and increasing soil erosion.
A study by UC Davis researchers suggests that forest trees can tap into nitrogen in rocks, increasing their growth and ability to pull carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This discovery could significantly affect how rapidly the earth will warm in the future.
The Asian longhorned beetle has already spread to nearby forests in Worcester, Mass., posing a threat to the region's forests. The beetle disproportionately attacks large maple trees, including red and sugar maples, which are vital to New England's iconic landscape.
Researchers at Imperial College London have created 3D virtual fossil models of two ancient types of harvestmen, which lived on Earth over 300 million years ago. The 3D models reveal that these ancient creatures were surprisingly modern in appearance, with some species still living today exhibiting similar characteristics.
A team of ecologists led by Ohio State University researchers found that younger, more diverse tree species are replacing aging aspens in the region's forests. These newer trees have higher light-use efficiency and can continue to store carbon, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers have introduced a scenario that assumes action will be taken to limit emissions, showing a lowest cost option to reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to less than 40% higher than today. The RCP 4.5 scenario includes nuclear and renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, and forest preservation to achieve this goal.
A new study suggests that aggressive tree-killing fungi, relatives of modern plant pathogens, played a key role in the demise of ancient conifer forests. The researchers propose that these fungi were triggered by global climate change and contributed to widespread tree mortality during the end-Permian crisis.
A new study suggests that reforestation on abandoned agricultural land can have a significant cooling effect on the climate. By considering historical patterns of land-use conversion, researchers found that farmers generally chose to use more productive and snow-free lands, which can absorb more carbon dioxide and reduce global warming.
The MIT model takes basic meteorological data and computes how tall a tree is likely to grow under those conditions. The team's results have been published in PLoS One and match up well with actual measurements from the US Forest Service, except for two geographic regions: the arid Southwest and parts of New England.
A recent study published in the journal Carbon Management suggests that using wood products can reduce carbon emissions by up to 10 tons per ton, making them a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Sustainably managed forests are found to be essentially carbon neutral, but older forests have limited capacity to absorb carbon dioxide.
The new field guide highlights 91 nonnative invasive plant species affecting forest lands in California, Oregon, and Washington. The guide provides detailed information for identification and has significant economic implications for landowners and local governments.
Scientists from Harvard University trained pigeons to fly through an artificial forest, gaining insights into their navigation methods that could inform auto-pilot technology design. The birds' ability to assess obstacles and choose straight routes could lead to more efficient and energy-saving navigation systems.
The study analyzed 260 deer-vehicle collisions between 2003 and 2007 to identify high-risk areas along Edmonton's city limits. Creating a buffer zone by grooming natural vegetation alongside roads is suggested as a solution to mitigate fatal collisions.
A recent study found that people in neighborhoods adjacent to public forest lands trust natural resource managers due to the severity of wildfire risks. Local, personal relationships play a crucial role in coming to agreement on management plans and policies.
Researchers evaluate the U.S. National Fire Plan's effectiveness in restoring western U.S. forests and its impact on native lizard populations, including the return of the eastern collared lizard to the Ozarks. The study also examines historical fire records and sediment cores to better understand the Arctic Tundra's fire regime.
A new report by US and European researchers found that world forests are becoming larger carbon sinks due to increased density, with no significant expansion of forest area. This increase in density helped maintain regional carbon levels despite deforestation, offering a way to mitigate carbon emissions through managed forestry.
A new forest simulation model helps researchers understand the effects of timber-friendly hardwood regeneration on songbird habitats in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The study found that regeneration in harvest gaps is crucial for forest managers to have choices, with sugar maple regeneration having a significant impact on bird habitat.
Researchers are testing a fungal pathogen and releasing non-stinging wasps to control the emerald ash borer, which has devastated forests and tree-lined neighborhoods. The fungus, Beauveria bassiana, kills beetles when applied to infested trees before wasps are released.
A recent study published in Agricultural and Forest Meteorology found that US forests can sequester up to 40% of the nation's fossil fuel carbon emissions. However, widespread droughts can cut this amount by about 20%.
An epidemiological study on trees reveals earlier spring warming and summer drought as significant risk factors for tree reproduction and survival. The study helps scientists predict which species are vulnerable to climate change by analyzing the effects of climate variability on tree growth and fecundity.
Two species of gorillas diverged 17,800 years ago during the Pleistocene era, with climate change causing intermittent interbreeding and population separation. The critically endangered Cross River gorilla population has lost 60% of its genetic diversity in 320 years due to anthropogenic pressure.
A new integrative climate model recognizes the significance of human-induced causes, such as deforestation and agro-industry, in addition to carbon dioxide emissions. This approach aims to achieve a more effective and socially democratic climate policy, responsive to local conditions.
A $20 million grant will study the effects of climate change on southern pine forests, a major economic engine in the US economy. The research aims to improve forest health, productivity, and sustainability while providing tools for landowners to adapt to climate change.
The discovery of Mentocrex beankaensis, a new rail species in western Madagascar's dry forests, emphasizes the critical need for conservation. The Beanka Forest, a largely intact area, has been the site of numerous discoveries of plant and animal species, with 97% of its original forest cover having disappeared since human arrival.
A study by Eric Lambin predicts the world may run out of productive agricultural land by 2050 due to rising global demand and land degradation. However, some developing countries have increased their forest cover while enhancing food production through innovation, sound policy, and good governance.
Growing trees on farms enhances soil health, conserves water, and provides a range of products including food, medicine, and energy. Agroforestry is crucial for meeting global challenges such as food security and climate change.
A new study reveals that deforestation has been the largest contributor to global CO2 buildup, with forests re-growing during wars and plagues having a limited impact. The Mongol invasions, however, led to significant carbon absorption due to forest regrowth.
A team of scientists predicts continued death of forests in the southwestern US due to climate change, with more severe fire events, higher tree mortality rates, and insect infestation. The study finds that warmer temperatures are negatively impacting tree growth, particularly in the spring and summer months.
A study by the US Forest Service and University of California, Santa Barbara found that warmer temperatures and reduced precipitation lead to lower tree fitness in southwestern US forests. This weakening of forest health has resulted in higher mortality rates from wildfires and bark beetle attacks.
A University of Washington scientist found that summertime coastal fog has declined and coastal temperatures have increased slightly since 1950. Climate models predict an increase in fog, but regional patterns may be overriding this effect.
Research reveals that early settlers rapidly cleared New Zealand forests with fires within 200 years of initial colonization, replacing native forests with grasslands and shrublands. The findings support the idea that human activity was the main cause of these fires, which were not related to unusual climate conditions.
A study published in BioScience found that nonindigenous insects are being detected at a rate of 2.5 per year, with high-impact insects and pathogens causing tree death and other effects every 2 to 2.5 years. The researchers advocate strengthening efforts to prevent arrivals of nonindigenous organisms.
A comprehensive study published in BioScience reveals over 455 insects and 16 pathogens are destroying forests across the US. Invasive species are predicted to continue threatening native ecosystems, with experts warning of a devastating impact on industries dependent on trees and plants.
A study published in Nature found that species loss leads to increases in disease-causing organisms, increasing the risk of infectious diseases such as Lyme disease and hantavirus. The researchers argue that preserving natural habitats is crucial to preventing this effect.
A species-rescue program for Haiti's threatened frogs and other species is being established, with captive-breeding and gene-preservation efforts. The goal is to preserve species in case they become extinct due to habitat loss, with a focus on releasing offspring in Haiti when the forest habitat improves.
A new study suggests that parts of Peru and Bolivia will become a desert-like setting if temperatures rise more than 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius above modern times. The change would be disastrous for the water supply and agricultural capacity of La Paz, affecting its two million inhabitants.
A new satellite-based global map of mangrove forests reveals they make up less than previously thought, sparking motivation for stronger conservation efforts. The map also shows 75% of the world's mangroves are concentrated in just 15 countries.
Conservation programs in China's Wenchuan County preserved forest cover after the 2008 earthquake, protecting endangered species like the giant panda. The research found that expansive national conservation efforts reduced natural disaster damage and human impacts.
Researchers from Ohio State University found that urban bird nests have lower nest survival rates due to human-provided food sources like trash cans and birdfeeders. Despite higher predator numbers in urban areas, these birds are less likely to be attacked because they can feed themselves.
Permanent night lighting affects songbirds' reproductive behavior, with males singing earlier and females laying eggs up to 1.5 days sooner in artificial light environments. This can lead to maladaptive mate-choice decisions, potentially impacting survival and fitness.
The risk of beetle outbreaks in western North America's forests is expected to increase significantly due to rising temperatures. Climate change is projected to boost spruce and mountain pine beetles' populations, leading to widespread tree mortality.
Researchers used Landsat data to map areas hardest hit by mountain pine beetles and found that large fires do not appear to occur more often or with greater severity. Beetle-killed forest swaths may actually be less likely to burn due to the breakdown of flammable volatile oils, and standing dead tree trunks can act as natural fire logs.
Scientists studied Scots Pine genes to discover they still harbor genetic variation from their continental ancestors, which could aid future populations' adaptation and survival under changing climate conditions. The research found Scottish pine tree populations are genetically diverse enough to cope with future change.
Eric Lambin's research integrates remote satellite imagery with door-to-door interviews to understand the complex conditions giving rise to land-use challenges. He has uncovered the political, economic, and social forces driving deforestation and reforestation trends worldwide.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that the relationship between a male cardinal's body condition and its bright red feather coloration is weaker in urban areas than in rural areas. This disruption may affect how birds choose mates and assess quality.
A study found that fuel treatments can reduce fire severity and protect older trees desirable for their timber, wildlife, and carbon-storage value. The results showed nearly 60% of trees survived in stands with thinning plus fuel treatment, and three-quarters of larger trees survived.
Forests have been shown to decrease blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension in natural settings, while also reducing depression, anger and ADHD symptoms.
Researchers explore using forest biomass to develop green energy and chemicals, offering a carbon-neutral alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The potential for tree-based green chemicals to replace traditional bioplastics is significant, with eco-friendly benefits and reduced ecological impacts.
Scientists found that reforestation can decrease the ability of forests to combat climate change by reducing carbon stock. The study suggests implementing forest management practices, such as site preparation without burning, to minimize negative effects on ecosystems.
Scientists review eight strategies to increase forest carbon storage, including afforestation, urban forestry, and biomass energy, while acknowledging the need for cost-effective methods and regulation. The current carbon offset of 12-19% in US forests is not permanent but has potential to increase with careful management.
A University of Illinois study monitored rat snakes and bird nests in fragmented forest areas, finding that rats spend more time on edges than thought, making interior nests safer. The study suggests preserving unfragmented forest habitats to conserve birds.
A new guide from the USDA Forest Service provides a tool to calculate the benefits of urban trees in Northern California. The study found that large-stature trees produce the highest benefit-to-cost ratio and can provide $516,800 in benefits over 40 years.
The reports examine the implications of producing biofuels from various sources, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural systems. Sustainable biofuels are based on production that does not negatively affect ecosystem health, and options include thermochemical, biochemical, and direct combustion methods.
A recent analysis found a substantial and sustained net loss of forest cover in the eastern United States, with a 4.1 percent decline over three decades. The study attributed the decline mainly to mechanical disturbance for timber production and urban expansion.
Researchers aim to develop blanket protection for vulnerable homes, more effective and environmentally-friendly than traditional wildfire measures. The team has tested over 40 fabrics to determine the right material, design, thickness, and weight for protection.
A new literature review synthesizes information on climate change, pathogens, and forests to inform land managers. The study reveals that climate change generally leads to reductions in tree health and improves conditions for certain damaging pathogens, such as Phytophthora and Red Band Needle Blight.