Researchers found that Swiss forests are no longer shielded from the worst effects of summer droughts, despite growing at high altitudes. The study, published in Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, reveals that the number of trees per stand is reduced due to drought, causing a progressive decline of these precious forests.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·TypeObservational study·DateOct 1, 2026
A new study has found evidence of genetic resistance to beech leaf disease (BLD) in some American beech trees, which could lead to the development of breeding populations for resistance. Researchers found that trees with good resistance to BBD also showed reduced symptoms of BLD, suggesting a genetic link between the two diseases.
When temperatures spike, coast redwoods slow their photosynthesis, chemical reaction that turns sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into carbon for growth. This reduces their ability to
Researchers at UBC have developed tools that combine high-resolution satellite heat mapping with shade and equity modelling to identify urban hot spots and determine where new trees can deliver the greatest benefits. The tools can pinpoint areas as small as 700 square metres, about the footprint of a large residential lot, and suggest ...
A University of Cambridge-led team has created detailed 3D maps of the Cairngorms National Park, revealing the beginnings of large-scale recovery of native woodland. The maps show over six million individual trees, with 40% under five meters tall, and provide insights into habitat type and tree regeneration.
A novel ex vitro transformation method utilizes Agrobacterium rhizogenes to genetically modify woody plants' roots, eliminating the need for tissue culture. This approach accelerates the development of genetically engineered trees, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution for the forestry and agricultural sectors.
A new analysis from the University of Illinois suggests that tree cavities can stay cooler than the outside air, providing crucial thermal protection for animals. The study finds that tree cavities can buffer animals from temperature extremes, including hot and cold days, and offers insights into forest management decisions worldwide.
Plants use proprioception to control their posture and maintain a straight shape, utilizing tension wood as a muscle-like structure that can bend and straighten. This complex biological process is regulated at the cellular level and unfolds through several stages, governed by the plant's proprioception.
SUNY Chancellor King visited the Great New York State Fair, showcasing participating SUNY campuses and offering free admission to current and incoming students. The event highlights SUNY's agricultural, healthcare, and technology initiatives.
A study by the University of Queensland suggests that urban parks lack vital midstorey vegetation, which is essential for small animals and birds. The researchers propose designing parks with denser, midstorey vegetation to improve the quality of urban green space and support wildlife, while also promoting community wellbeing.
Researchers from Cornell University have created an interactive map identifying 1.8 million individual trees in New York City, which could optimize tree placement for cooling in cities worldwide. The map, using satellite imagery and on-the-ground datasets, is 82% accurate and includes trees on private property and in natural areas. The...
Global mangrove cover has increased by 47,720 hectares worldwide between 1985 and 2025, according to new analysis, but some key regions, such as Indonesia, have lost significant mangrove cover, highlighting uneven progress in mangrove ecosystem changes.
A study from Ohio State University found that sooty mangabey monkeys, with feet similar to those of humans, can climb vertical tree trunks with ease. The research suggests that the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees could have been a vertical climber, challenging existing theories about foot structure and forest environment...
A new study finds that ancient trees preserve rare genetic variation that is poorly represented elsewhere. The research suggests that population history, rather than tree age, contributes to the evolutionary importance of these trees.
A study by Colorado State University and others found that fast-moving forest fires burn more area severely, leaving fewer trees to reseed the landscape. This can lead to long-term ecological change rather than recovery.
A Northwestern University study found that areas with shrinking tree canopy cover experience higher mortality rates, particularly in hot neighborhoods. Protecting mature trees alongside planting new ones is crucial for reducing health risks and strengthening climate resilience.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo have developed an algorithm for optimal pruning using LiDAR technology, which creates a detailed 3D model of tree architecture. By simulating wind forces on these models, they can identify vulnerable branches and recommend precise cuts to improve tree stability.
The Conservation Gap Analysis of Select Native Asian Oaks reveals over half of native ranges are under human pressure, with many species lacking backup in botanical collections. The report prioritizes oak conservation efforts in Southeast and East Asia, focusing on regions with high human impact and limited protected area coverage.
Under elevated CO2 levels, trees work with microbes to 'mine' soil nutrients, increasing nitrogen availability by 30%. This 'faster but tighter' cycle supports tree growth and productivity.
Children equipped with thermal cameras are helping redesign schools to cope with hotter summers by spotting heat hotspots and developing their own cooling solutions. The 'Heat-Cool' programme has shown that children as young as nine can use thermal imaging technology to investigate how heat builds up around their schools.
Researchers have discovered a rich genetic diversity of avocado varieties in Central America, including those grown in Nicaragua, which could help boost sustainable agriculture and commercial varieties. By analyzing DNA from local farmers and examining leaf samples, the team found evidence of ancient migration from South America thousa...
A new study found that invasive plant species in low-income neighborhoods boosted mosquito growth and survival, leading to larger mosquitoes capable of transmitting disease. By planting native tree species, cities can reduce mosquito infestations and protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
A new tool, Tree Value Visions, aims to support councils and communities in thinking about the future of trees in towns and cities in a more inclusive way. The research highlights the importance of considering deeper connections people have with nature and integrating urban tree planning across different policy areas.
Researchers found that taller trees have an advantage in younger forests due to increased light capture, but shade-tolerant species thrive under tall canopies in older forests. This study reveals a mechanistic explanation for forest succession and offers insights into climate modeling and forest management.
A new pantropical carbon database synthesizes data from 146 studies to better understand the impact of forest degradation and regeneration on the global carbon cycle. The study reveals that degraded forests recover faster than fully cleared land, while preserving forest structure enhances carbon recovery.
A new study reveals that giant Dipterocarp trees can transport water to their topmost branches without difficulty, contrary to conventional scientific theory. The research found that these trees' hydraulic systems are perfectly adapted for their height, allowing them to withstand drought conditions.
Researchers found that giant trees in tropical forests have developed complex adaptations to compensate for the challenges of transporting water to their uppermost branches. These adjustments enable them to continue growing and thrive despite increased water stress.
Urban parks are found to have a significant impact on mitigating heat, air and noise pollution in cities, extending far beyond their boundaries. Parks with tree cover and grassland areas improve thermal comfort and reduce Physiologically Equivalent Temperature by up to 8.5°C.
Researchers from Frontiers, a multidisciplinary team, spent years searching for the tallest tree in Taiwan after discovering an estimated 5,000 different species thrive on the island. They used LiDAR technology and citizen scientists to identify the 'Heaven Sword,' a 84.1-meter-tall Taiwania fir, as East Asia's tallest tree.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Forests and Global Change·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2026
Mangrove forests worldwide are no longer in net decline and are now growing overall, driven by natural regeneration and expansion. The research highlights a more hopeful trajectory for these ecosystems, which play a critical role in protecting coastlines and storing climate-warming carbon.
A Concordia University study reveals that Quebec's forests are recovering with an increase in conifer species, driven by the growth of balsam fir. The researchers used satellite imagery and ground-based forest inventory data to track changes over three decades.
A new study by Cal Poly faculty found that building density, not urban trees, was the strongest predictor of home loss in Los Angeles firestorms. The study examined 15,082 structures and 52,893 tree canopies within the Eaton and Palisades fire scars.
A recent study analyzed 138 Indian cities using satellite data and explainable AI methods to show why urban greening needs to be tailored to humidity, canopy structure, and airflow. The findings highlight the importance of considering moisture management and ventilation in urban planning to effectively mitigate heat-related stress.
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.
Researchers found that oak trees delay leaf emergence to escape herbivores, reducing insect damage by an impressive 55%. This delay allows the tree to avoid being stripped bare and enables it to recover from infestations.
A Concordia-led study analyzed 53 green alleys and 23 conventional alleys in Montreal and Trois-Rivières, finding that results depend on alley design and purpose. The study suggests a middle ground between community-led projects and standardized approaches to achieve both biodiversity and social cohesion.
A new UC Santa Cruz study reveals that California's endemic and near-endemic trees are projected to lose between half and three-quarters of their climatically suitable habitat over the next century. The research demonstrates that current conservation status on the IUCN Red List do not reflect this imminent risk.
Researchers use tree rings and satellites to date changes beavers make to the tundra landscape as they spread northwards. The study provides evidence of beaver colonization in the region starting in 2008, with satellite analysis revealing a significant expansion of surface water between 2015 and 2019.
Researchers at John Innes Centre develop rapid seed germination protocol, reducing Ash dieback's impact. This new method has already produced over 2,000 seedlings for trials and research.
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.
A global study reveals treelines shift upslope in 42% of cases, retreating in 25%, due to complex interactions between temperature and human interventions like land use changes. Treeline dynamics also influenced by natural disturbances like fires.
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.
Researchers at Virginia Tech used modern data science to guide restoration strategies for the endangered butternut tree. The study mapped climate and soil conditions linked to natural disease resistance, identifying prime regions for resistant butternut trees and hybrids across the eastern United States.
Researchers discovered temperate trees, including oak, elm, and hazel, in Doggerland over 16,000 years ago, revealing a surprisingly hospitable environment. The study suggests that Doggerland may have supported early Mesolithic communities prior to flooding, shedding light on the region's ecological history and human settlement patterns.
Scientists discovered that a single, 2,400-year-old alerce tree protects hundreds to thousands of underground fungal species. These fungi help forests function by funneling water and nutrients to trees and assisting plants in fighting stressors like drought and pathogens.
Researchers have observed and measured weak electrical discharges, known as coronae, on trees during thunderstorms for the first time. The phenomenon may impact canopy health, with coronae burning leaf tips and potentially damaging trees over time, sparking further investigation into its effects.
A new study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, leading to greater health risks and exacerbating the 'heat island' effect in cities. Wealthier neighborhoods tend to have more trees, resulting in better shade provision for pedestrians, highlighting a consistent link between wealth and neighborhood tree abundance.
Research found that oak tree microbiomes are resilient to environmental stressors like drought and disease, with subtle changes in root microbiota after prolonged drought. The study suggests a potential role for beneficial bacteria in supporting tree resilience and stability.
Researchers examined evidence and offered a simpler explanation for increased electrical activity in spruce trees, finding no evidence of anticipation or communication. The study suggests that plants can perceive environmental changes but only respond to significant challenges.
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.
A new study suggests that strategic tree planting in Canada's northern forests could remove at least five times the country's annual carbon emissions, totaling around 19 gigatons by 2100. This would be a significant step towards Canada's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and meeting its commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.
A recent study published in New Phytologist reveals that trees don't record carbon from solar storms in the same way, affecting how scientists interpret past events. The research sheds light on how biological differences impact tree rings and provides a more accurate understanding of extreme space weather.
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.
A recently identified tree species in Australia, Rhodamnia zombi, is facing extinction due to myrtle rust, a fungal disease that attacks and kills its young shoots. Researchers are working on finding clean cuttings and propagating them to grow resistant seedlings, which may hold the key to resurrecting the 'zombie' tree.
A multi-institutional study found that living in urban areas with visible trees is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, with a 4% decrease. In contrast, higher percentages of visible grass were linked to a 6% increase in cardiovascular diseases.
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.
A new study reveals that tropical forests can regrow up to 95% faster when given sufficient nitrogen, allowing them to absorb more carbon dioxide. This finding suggests that targeting nitrogen pollution from farms and factories may be crucial in helping young forests recover and act as natural climate solutions.
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.
A new study found that considering factors jointly can capture a more accurate representation of disparities in residential greenspace exposure, driven by structural racism. Exposure to trees and grass provides numerous benefits to physical and mental health, but inequities persist due to disinvestment in marginalized communities.
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.