Parasitic plants conspire to keep hosts alive
Researchers found mistletoes can increase photosynthesis to share resources with their hosts, reducing harm to the tree. This strategy allows them to coexist and even benefit birds and pollinators.
Trees
Research on trees and their role in nature and cities. Covers forest conservation, tension wood, and the benefits of urban trees.
Climate impacts drive east-west divide in forest seed production
A new study finds that eastern forests are more responsive to climate change, with younger trees increasing their seed production. In contrast, older western trees have been less responsive, which could limit their ability to regenerate after diebacks. The study reveals a continental divide in forest responses to climate change.
Terrestrial laser scanning for monitoring hydrological cycle of trees
This study introduces a new method using terrestrial laser scanning to monitor changes in leaf water content of tree communities. The technique allows for the measurement and monitoring of leaf water content with increased accuracy.
Spotted lanternfly: Research accelerates in effort to contain invasive pest
A growing body of research helps understand spotted lanternfly biology and management, featuring 25 articles on its impact on native plants and crops. The collection showcases progress made so far in containing the spread of this invasive pest.
Songbirds' reproductive success reduced by natural gas compressor noise
Researchers found that Eastern bluebirds and tree swallows nesting in noisy boxes spent less time incubating eggs, had fewer eggs hatch, and produced fewer young than their neighbors. This suggests that compressor noise negatively impacted fitness through reduced hatching and fledging success.
A (pollen-free) sigh of relief for Japan: The genetics of male sterility in cedar trees
Researchers have identified a candidate gene and two deleterious mutations underlying male sterility in sugi trees, enabling selective breeding to reduce pollen load. This breakthrough has the potential to alleviate pollen allergy issues in Japan and globally.
Unusual breeding behavior reported in treefrogs for the first time
Researchers report the first-ever observation of this unique reproductive strategy in Paranapiacaba Treefrogs. The study found that 3cm-long tadpoles hatch in water pools within bromeliad plant tanks and then transfer to a nearby stream to complete their development.
Breakthrough in the fight against spruce bark beetles
Researchers have identified 73 different receptors in the antennae of the Eurasian spruce bark beetle, enabling characterization of its pheromone response. This discovery could lead to more effective and environmentally friendly pesticides and bark beetle traps.
Scientists developed a novel method of automatic soil mapping
A team of scientists from RUDN University developed a new approach to automatic soil mapping using machine learning technologies. The method, which uses traditional rules for manual mapping, provides highly accurate results and easy-to-interpret maps, outperforming existing statistical models.
More trees do not always create a cooler planet, Clark University geographer finds
New research reveals that deforestation in the U.S. does not always cause planetary warming; instead, in some places, it actually cools the planet due to the albedo effect. The study found that forest loss east of the Mississippi River and in Pacific Coast states causes planetary warming.
Combination of pine scent and ozone as super source of particulate emissions
Researchers at Tampere University discovered how α-pinene reacts with ozone to form aerosol particles, a key finding for understanding atmospheric reactions. The study provides a methodological framework for studying similar reactions and helps demystify complexity in the atmosphere.
Scientists propose three-step method to reverse significant reforestation side effect
Researchers have developed a three-step method to reverse significant reforestation side effects, including rapid soil water loss due to fast-growing species. The approach involves reconstructing slopes and planting slow-growing tree species alongside fast-growing species to increase soil water content.
Combined bark beetle outbreaks and wildfire spell uncertain future for forests
A new study finds that severe spruce beetle outbreaks followed by wildfires can lead to permanent damage in high-elevation forests. Aspen trees, however, have a higher chance of regrowing from their root systems and may dominate these forests.
Researchers find peptide that treats, prevents killer citrus disease
A unique peptide found in Australian finger lime has been shown to destroy the deadly bacterium causing citrus greening and activate the plant's immune system to prevent new infections. The treatment is safer for the environment than current methods, using a stable anti-microbial compound that remains effective even in high heat.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021
WVU biologists uncover forests' unexpected role in climate change
A study by WVU biologists found that trees globally are consuming more carbon dioxide than previously reported, making forests crucial in regulating the Earth's atmosphere. The research shows that increased photosynthesis is the main driver of this increase, contradicting previous studies.
SourceWest Virginia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2021
Forests of the world in 3D
A study led by the University of Göttingen analyzed global forest structures and found that precipitation patterns drive diversity in these complex ecosystems. The research team created maps showing regional variability in structural complexity, highlighting the importance of water availability for tree species coexistence.
Research identifies more sustainable, cost-effective approach to treating citrus canker
Researchers have developed a more sustainable approach to treating citrus canker, which reduces copper usage by up to 80%. The new technique involves using less water and copper, resulting in lower costs and environmental impact. By adopting this method, citrus growers can minimize the risk of developing copper-resistant strains.
Scientists look to soils to learn how forests affect air quality, climate change
Researchers found that forests dominated by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi trees release more nitrogen gases than those associated with ectomycorrhizal fungi, negatively impacting air quality. Meanwhile, AM-associating tree roots enhance soil carbon storage by releasing protected carbon, highlighting the complexity of forest ecosystems.
Prosopis juliflora acutely reduces water resources in Ethiopia, costing rural livelihoods
The invasive Prosopis juliflora tree seriously diminishes water resources in the Afar Region of Ethiopia, consuming up to 3.1-3.3 billion m3/yr and generating US$ 320 million and US$ 470 million net benefits per year. The study highlights the need for a coordinated control program to contain its spread and reduce density.
Territorial, expert navigators: The black howler monkeys of Mexico
Researchers found that black howler monkeys remember specific locations for accessing ripe fruit and recall ripening patterns of different trees. The monkeys also use vocal warnings to defend their territories from rival troops.
Neural network has learned to identify tree species
Researchers developed an algorithm to identify various tree species in satellite images, enabling efficient forest management and monitoring. The neural network-based approach improves accuracy and stability for practical application.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing·DateJan 28, 2021
Forests with diverse tree sizes and small clearings hinder wildland fire growth
A new study published in the International Journal of Wildland Fire found that forests with diverse tree sizes and small clearings slow down wildland fire growth. The research used a 3D analysis to examine how forest structure affects fire behavior and revealed that varying tree sizes and shapes can significantly impact fire spread.
SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateJan 27, 2021
Ancient indigenous New Mexican community knew how to sustainably coexist with wildfire
A new study suggests that Native American farmers in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico learned to manage fire as an ally to prevent dangerous blazes, clearing flammable material and promoting forest resilience. The ancient practice of controlled burns could help mitigate modern wildfires.
SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2021
Integrated disease management saves olive trees from Verticillium wilt
Researchers at UCOLIVO Group reduce Verticillium wilt in commercial olive grove by integrating resistant crops and soil disinfestation practices, resulting in 3.1% Picual tree mortality vs 5.6% with traditional techniques. Frantoio trees show even greater resistance to the disease.
Smithsonian scientists reduce uncertainty in forest carbon storage calculations
Scientists from the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute synthesize patterns of tropical forest productivity and carbon storage, finding that warm, wet forests with moderately fertile soils store more carbon. The study's findings reveal consistent relationships across regions, influenced by climate and soil conditions.
This tree snake climbs with a lasso-like motion
Researchers discovered that invasive brown tree snakes on Guam can use a novel, lasso-like locomotion to climb smooth vertical cylinders. This new mode of locomotion has important implications for understanding the snakes and conservation practices aimed at protecting birds from them.
Scientists discover bizarre new mode of snake locomotion
Researchers at Colorado State University and the University of Cincinnati have discovered a new mode of snake locomotion, called lasso locomotion, which enables brown tree snakes to ascend larger smooth cylinders. This discovery may help protect endangered birds from the snakes' impact.
Knowledge of cycad branching behavior improves conservation
Research shows that cycad trees' sex can be inferred from their branching behavior, providing a tool for conservationists to assess population traits. This knowledge is crucial for recovering the island's cycad population, as it was killed by non-native insect pests.
Understanding disease-induced microbial shifts may reveal new crop management strategies
Citrus disease-induced microbial shifts may lead to new management strategies for crops. Researchers found increased diversity in microbiome associated with Huanglongbing disease progression.
Christmas trees can be green because of a photosynthetic short-cut
Researchers at Umeå University discovered a photosynthetic shortcut in pine trees that allows them to stay green year-round. This mechanism, called spill-over, enables the transfer of energy directly between photosystems I and II, protecting the plant from damage caused by excess light energy.
Delicious and disease-free: scientists attempting new citrus varieties
UC Riverside scientists have received $4.67 million to breed new fruits with natural resistance to Huanglongbing, a lethal tree disease affecting citrus crops worldwide. The project aims to incorporate resistance into the trees themselves through breeding, providing a more sustainable alternative to commercial treatments.
A new species of mammal may have been found in Africa's montane forests
A research team from the University of Helsinki has discovered a tree hyrax in Kenya's Taita Hills that may belong to an unknown species. The 'strangled thwack' calls of the animal have not been described anywhere else, suggesting a possible link to different species.
Climate warming linked to tree leaf unfolding and flowering growing apart
Researchers found that climate warming causes trees to advance their leaf unfolding and flowering times, but at different rates. This unequal timing may disrupt interactions with pollinators and impact ecosystem structure and function.
Root bacteria could help defeat fatal citrus disease
A $10 million project led by University of California - Riverside is investigating tiny underground microorganisms for a cure to fatal citrus disease. The research team will test whether soil amendments can suppress parasitic microorganisms and give trees more strength to combat diseases like HLB.
A well-rooted study
A recent study led by UC Santa Barbara's Marc Mayes investigates how patterns in tree water loss to the atmosphere relates to groundwater supplies. The results validate at landscape-wide scales ideas that scientists have proposed based on decades of research.
Do the benefits of Christmas outweigh its harms?
The article highlights various Christmas-related health risks, including arsenic poisoning, injuries from falls and slips, and gastrointestinal problems. The authors argue that while some sources suggest the benefits of Christmas outweigh its harms, they themselves found no strong evidence of widespread adverse effects.
Evapotranspiration in an arid environment
Researchers quantify water usage of landscape plants in arid environments to inform irrigation practices. The study found that mature trees become more water efficient, reducing the need for turfgrass, and that removing turfgrass can lead to significant water savings.
Climate influence on tree longevity and growth
A study analyzing global tree-ring datasets reveals that trees in tropical climates grow two times faster than those in temperate regions but have significantly shorter lifespans. Warmer temperatures above 25.4?C are associated with reduced tree longevity, likely due to water stress.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020
UMaine-led research group find that trees are out of equilibrium with climate
A University of Maine-led research team studied hundreds of North American tree species and found that only 50% of their potential climatic habitats are actually inhabited. This suggests that trees may struggle to keep pace with climate change, highlighting the need for more sophisticated predictive tools for conservation.
Invasive harlequin ladybird causes severe decline of two-spotted ladybird, new study shows
A long-term study led by CABI scientists reveals that the invasive harlequin ladybird has caused a severe decline of the two-spotted ladybird in northern Switzerland. The researchers found that the harlequin ladybird dominated broadleaved hedges, but not pine stands or meadows.
Powerhouse plants that bolster the food web
A new study by University of Delaware Professor Doug Tallamy identifies the most critical plants needed to sustain food webs across the United States. These powerhouse plants, including oaks, willows, and goldenrod, support insects that are essential for energy transfer and soil decomposition.
Critical temperature for tropical tree lifespan revealed
Research finds that tropical trees' lifespans decrease above 25 C, with implications for animal habitats, air quality, and carbon stocks. The study suggests that global warming will exacerbate tree mortality, affecting biodiversity and CO2 emissions.
Ancient alliance
Researchers discovered that stressed oak trees have more diverse fungal communities than healthy ones, with mutually beneficial relationships providing a buffer against climate change. This symbiotic relationship maintains ecosystem balance and could help conserve tree health in California woodlands.
Measurements of tree height can help cycad conservation decisions
Researchers found that cycad trees exhibit sex differences in growth rate and that garden-grown plants grow faster than those in natural habitats. The study's findings inform conservation decisions for threatened species like Cycas micronesica, which faces significant losses due to invasive insect herbivores.
Tree lifespan decline in forests could neutralize part of rise in net carbon uptake
Research by Brazilian scientists reveals that as trees grow faster, their lives get shorter, offsetting carbon storage. This trade-off impacts forest carbon uptake and highlights the need for more effective climate change mitigation strategies.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2020
Leaf microbiomes are a neighborhood affair in northern forests
A study published in Ecological Monographs reveals that sugar maple leaf microbiomes change along the transition from coniferous to deciduous forests. The findings show that southern sugar maples have similar microbiomes, while northern trees host bacterial communities resembling those of other dominant species.
Cost of planting, protecting trees to fight climate change could jump
The study found that preserving and planting trees could cost as much as $393 billion per year by 2055 to achieve more than 10% of total emissions reductions. Forest management in temperate regions will play a significant role, especially under higher price scenarios.
Trees can help slow climate change, but at a cost
A new study suggests that widespread forest management and protections against deforestation can help mitigate climate change, but will come with a steep cost. The research found that planting and protecting trees could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 6 gigatons a year, but would cost $393 billion annually.
Guam's most endangered tree species reveals universal biological concept
Scientists have discovered that a critically endangered tree species on Guam modifies its leaf function to best exploit prevailing light conditions. The findings provide new insights into the adaptations of trees in response to changing environmental factors.
In temperate trees, climate-driven increase in carbon capture causes autumn leaves to fall sooner
A new study found that climate-driven increases in carbon capture lead to earlier leaf senescence in temperate trees. This challenges the long-held expectation that warmer temperatures would cause leaves to stay on trees longer and slow down climate change.
Irreversible hotter and drier climate over inner East Asia
Recent consecutive years of record high temperatures and droughts are unprecedented in over 250 years, according to researchers. The combination of heatwaves and soil moisture loss accelerates more heatwaves, threatening the region's ecosystem.
University of Guam works to stop ironwood tree decline
Researchers are analyzing termites to assess their role in infecting ironwood trees with a deadly bacterium, which has killed over 20% of the island's gago trees. The team is also planting new, resistant trees and studying how termites spread the disease.
Research on environmental history: 330-year-old poplar tree tells of its life
A 330-year-old poplar tree has been found to accumulate epigenetic marks that reveal its age, providing a natural epimutation accumulation system. The study's findings suggest that the rate of somatic epimutations is approximately 10,000 times higher than genetic mutations in the same tree.
Study finds health trade-offs for wildlife as urbanization expands
A new study found that city-dwelling tree swallows bred more successfully due to warmer temperatures, but their blood contained higher levels of mercury from contaminated insects. Urbanization's impact on wildlife health is a growing concern as the climate continues to warm and land use changes threaten biodiversity.
What type of forest to choose for better CO2 storage?
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that species diversity is optimal for equatorial and tropical rainforests, while abundance of trees is key to carbon storage in colder regions. The findings have substantial practical relevance for climate change mitigation strategies.
Virtual reality forests could help understanding of climate change
A virtual reality forest created by geographers can let people walk through a simulated forest of today and see potential future scenarios. The researchers used data on a typical Wisconsin forest to create a more organic, natural feel, allowing visitors to experience the changes brought on by climate change.
Future of digital ag could use robots to optimize apple yields, boost profits
A Cornell-led team is using robots with computer vision to optimize apple yields by controlling fruit numbers per tree. This can increase total crop values by $7,000 per acre, helping growers meet market demand for fruit size and quality.
Scientists unravel how and why Amazon trees die
A new study reveals that Amazon trees dying at a faster rate are those with higher growth speeds, which are more vulnerable to climate change. The research found that drought is also driving tree death, particularly in the southern Amazon.
The biggest trees capture the most carbon: Large trees dominate carbon storage in forests
A study found that large-diameter trees in Pacific Northwest forests store 42% of the total above-ground carbon, while only accounting for 3% of the total number of trees. This highlights their crucial role in mitigating climate change and emphasizes the need to protect these trees.
Better health - for people and the planet - grows on trees
Researchers outline the benefits of tropical fruits in terms of nutrition and discuss barriers to scaling up supply. Smallholder farmers and marginalized groups can benefit from tree-sourced food sources, which can also provide ecosystem services like carbon sequestration.
SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalPeople and Nature·DateNov 5, 2020