Research on trees and their role in nature and cities. Covers forest conservation, tension wood, and the benefits of urban trees.
Dwarf mistletoe has an extreme water-pump seed ejection system that fires seeds up to 20 meters. This discovery could aid disease control by targeting the unique characteristics of dwarf mistletoe reproduction.
A NASA study reveals that planting trees on marginal agricultural lands can sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide, potentially offsetting one-fifth of the US's annual fossil fuel emissions. Additionally, research suggests that insect outbreaks linked to droughts and heat waves may contribute to increased greenhouse gas levels.
Researchers identified phenolic compounds in pine bark extract with high biological activity, including potent inhibition of nitric oxide and prostaglandin production. The study suggests that consuming pine bark-based food supplements may help alleviate arthritis symptoms.
A Stanford University team is working to restore native forests in Hawaii by offering landowners financial incentives. They are focusing on the restoration of koa trees, which provide numerous ecosystem services including recharging freshwater aquifers and storing carbon.
The loss of gray wolves in western North America has triggered ecological effects on elk populations, beaver, birds, fish, and even tree species, leading to collapsing health of aspen and other vegetation.
Researchers constructed a phylogenetic tree using only 16,000 protein and DNA sequences from green plants, demonstrating the power of data-driven approaches in biology. By leveraging sequence databases, scientists can now refine their understanding of biodiversity with greater precision.
A five-year study by Virginia Tech researchers found that lead bullets do not leach into water tables or streams after landing on controlled shooting ranges. The study's findings suggest that lead is mostly absorbed in the top few inches of soil and does not pose a significant risk to wildlife.
Studies suggest that maximum parsimony, a simpler method, is more accurate than maximum likelihood in inferring historical relationships among species. The results published in Nature challenge the state-of-the-art technique's accuracy and highlight its limitations.
A multi-species herbivore outbreak occurred in Panama following an El Niño drought, causing moth larvae to devour 250% more leaf material than usual. The short-lived event was brought under control quickly by natural predators and diseases, but highlights the potential impact of climate change on forest ecosystems.
A $3 million NSF grant is enabling researchers to combine expertise and solve classification problems for flowering plants. The new system has broken up traditional groups and shuffled others, with Amborella forming the base of the tree.
A Princeton University study found that changes in U.S. forests caused by land use practices have increased the emission of smog-producing chemicals from trees, which may have worsened ozone pollution in some parts of the country. The study suggests that intensified tree farming and other land use changes have altered the mix of trees ...
The poplar's genome has been cracked, revealing potential genes specific to trees that could aid in combating global warming. By comparing the genomes of Populus and Arabidopsis, researchers hope to identify tree-specific genes that can be used to modify trees for better energy production and wood quality.
The DOE has successfully sequenced the poplar tree's genome, providing a critical resource for developing faster-growing trees and increasing biomass conversion. Researchers aim to engineer trees that can sequester more carbon from the atmosphere, potentially helping mitigate global warming.
A groundbreaking study reveals a comprehensive genetic map of important tree genes, enabling scientists to unlock the secrets of tree biology. The database contains over 102,000 gene sequences from the Populus genus, allowing researchers to explore the genetic functions of trees and their responses to environmental stresses.
Duke University researchers studied tree roots in place, finding they adjust anatomy and physiology to maximize water transport deep underground. The findings improve theoretical models of water transport within trees, revealing the importance of deep roots in efficient water flow.
A new study found that three mahogany species require specialized soils with specific plant nutrients, limiting their distribution. The research has significant implications for forest management and 'green' certified timber.
The study suggests that the fear of wolves among herbivores influences vegetation growth in Yellowstone. Restoration goals should focus on recovering natural processes, rather than managing specific species. The findings have implications for other regions with similar ecological dynamics.
A Duke University study challenges the idea that trees can 'relocate' quickly in response to climate change by analyzing genetic data. The research suggests that many tree species may have remained closer to ancient ice sheets than previously thought, limiting their ability to migrate rapidly.
Researchers found that buffelgrass, an invasive non-native species, grabs water before foothill palo verde trees can, ultimately killing them. The grass reduces the available water to trees, exacerbating drought conditions and causing self-pruning, a natural defense mechanism for the trees.
A University of Utah study found that insect consumption by insects keeps dominant tree species under control, allowing other trees to thrive. This increased diversity is crucial for the ecosystem's health.
A biologist studied the tree hole ecosystem and found that changing factors such as predation, resources, and disturbance alters community composition. The results show that certain species are tolerant of predators, disturbances, or competition, allowing them to coexist in different spatial scales.
Research reveals that European trees are limited in their ability to track climate changes, with many species occupying less than half of their suitable range. This limitation is attributed to dispersal restriction, suggesting that most species will struggle to adapt to future warming.
Researchers have successfully mapped the genomes of two devastating fungal pathogens, Phytophtora sojae and Phytophtora ramorum, which causes sudden oak death disease. The genome sequences will aid in developing better detection methods and tracking the spread of the disease.
Researchers found that partial defoliation stimulates micro-organisms to release more nitrogen in the soil. This increase in nitrogen availability allows certain trees to grow larger leaves and recover from initial damage.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to identify genes in tree species, paving the way for domesticated trees. This breakthrough aims to reduce the need for logging wilderness areas by producing ideal characteristics such as insect resistance or improved wood properties.
Researchers at Lund Institute of Technology have created nanoscale trees using controlled seeding, enabling complex structures for various applications. The technology offers potential for converting sunlight to electricity and creating efficient light panels.
Researchers develop new methods to assess carbon uptake in Western mountain forests, which are affected by drought. By combining airborne data with ground-based measurements, scientists can better understand natural processes involved in forest-air carbon exchange.
A comprehensive study of plant physiology has found that fast-growing plants (hares) are more susceptible to pollution, while slower-growing plants (tortoises) are better adapted to control energy consumption. The research provides insights into how plants respond to environmental changes.
A study by UC Berkeley researchers found that even brief contact with wood or leaf litter increases the risk of tick exposure. Precautions such as avoiding prolonged contact and inspecting skin carefully are recommended for people frequenting endemic areas.
Alpine tree lines are shifting up-slope due to global warming, threatening regional plant populations. The study suggests that pine trees could help protect drinking water catchments from erosion and pollution in the City of Vienna.
American chestnut trees have shown remarkable growth potential in plantations, growing up to 77% taller and 140% wider than other forest species. Purdue researcher Doug Jacobs is developing blight-resistant hybrids to restore the tree to its historic range.
Researchers found evidence of Heterobasidion annosum pathogen originating from eastern North America, likely hitching a ride in untreated lumber from infected trees. The pathogen has since established itself in the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano, killing large swaths of stone pine trees.
The emergence of Brood X cicadas in May will result in some damage to fruit trees and prized yard trees and shrubs. Gardeners, vintners, and farmers are advised to cover vulnerable plants with netting to prevent damage.
Rising carbon dioxide levels are altering Amazonian forest ecosystems, leading to faster growth and changes in species composition. Large trees are outcompeting smaller ones, with the latter's decline posing concerns for the entire ecosystem.
The International Multiproxy Paleofire Database merges tree-ring evidence and lake sediment records to study past fires, with over 450 tree-ring and 50 sediment-based records anticipated. Researchers aim to connect paleodata to modern data for forest management and climate change analysis.
Researchers found that loblolly pine forests grown in high CO2 conditions exhibit varying growth rates depending on soil moisture. Nitrogen deficiencies limit tree growth in dry years, while excess nitrogen makes a difference in wet years.
Research by Richard Norby and colleagues at ORNL found that young trees and green plants respond favorably to elevated CO2 levels, with a 24% increase in net primary productivity. However, the long-term effect of carbon dioxide fertilization on mature trees and soil sequestration is still debated.
Researchers discovered that fungi infecting healthy plant tissues can provide protection against pathogens, increasing survival rates for cacao leaves. Field tests are underway to cultivate such fungal armies as biological control agents.
A new study found that overharvesting Brazil nuts significantly reduces seedling and young trees in the Amazon. Scientists recommend limiting harvests, restricting seasons, or planting more trees to ensure sustainability.
The current Brazil nut harvesting practices are not sustainable in the long term due to disrupted regeneration cycles, leading to a dwindling number of older trees. The researchers recommend close monitoring and management of exploited populations to avoid future failures and encourage younger tree establishment.
Satellite data reveals a significant increase in animal deaths in tropical rainforests worldwide, highlighting the impact of habitat destruction and fragmentation on species populations. The study, published in Ecology Letters, provides critical insights into the urgent need to protect these ecosystems.
A study by Indiana University researchers suggests that European soil microbes help the invasive American black cherry tree grow, while inhibiting native species. The research found that in Dutch greenhouses, sterilized soil led to poor growth of native cherry trees, but non-sterilized soil allowed the invasive species to thrive.
This study demonstrates that Symphonia globulifera, a widespread tropical rainforest tree, has a complex evolutionary history shaped by oceanic currents and land bridges. The research revealed distinct phylogeographic structure in Panama's Isthmus, linked to its historical connection with Central America and South America.
A team led by Greg Asner is using satellite technology to track timber harvests and deforestation in the Amazon, sharing data with environmental agencies to target illegal loggers. The research highlights the urgent need to address selective logging, which has dire consequences for the global environment and climate.
A study found that gray squirrels are essential for germination of black walnut trees due to their scatter hoarding behavior, while red squirrels' larder hoarding practice hinders seed dispersal. The researchers suggest changing land-use practices to maintain healthy forest connectivity.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences documents harm caused by habitat fragmentation to a tree species native to Tanzania. The research found that birds that disperse seeds for the tree are rare or absent in fragmented areas, leading to poor seed regeneration and threatening the tree's survival.
The reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park has led to a remarkable recovery of cottonwood and willow species, as well as improved stream health. Young trees are now growing taller in areas where wolves are present, suggesting that the fear of predation is preventing elk from overgrazing.
The project will model air quality in the US, factoring in climate-driven changes, wildfires, and land use shifts. Researchers aim to better understand how future climate may impact urban and regional air quality.
The IBISCA project aims to understand the vertical stratification of insects throughout the dark understory and emergent canopy of Panama's tropical forest. Using advanced technologies, including a canopy crane, raft, bubble, and treehouse, researchers will collect samples and data on arthropods and other organisms.
Researchers developed software to weigh fire danger reduction against thinning costs, finding targeted density preserves ponderosa pine and western larch while minimizing waste. The approach can help reduce wildfire risks across tens of millions of acres with cost-effective solutions.
Researchers are using genetically engineered cottonwood trees to remove hazardous materials from contaminated soil. The project aims to reduce mercury levels in the soil by twofold within 18 months through a process called phytoremediation.
Researchers are exploring ways to combat the devastating impact of the Asian woody adelgid on western North Carolina's hemlock forests. CAMCORE, a global forest conservation program, is working with natural predators and developing resistant tree varieties to preserve genetic diversity.
Biologists at Rice University are investigating the genetic and environmental factors behind Chinese tallow trees' success in Texas. The research aims to understand how the trees' low defenses against insects contribute to their rapid growth and success as an invasive species.
A group of researchers found a strong correlation between the ages of branching points and morphological variation in four lizard groups. The study challenges the general assumption that each lineage's history is unique.
Researchers have found that areas burned in forest fires may support more and healthier dogwoods due to increased light, heat, and airflow. Fire could potentially impede the spread of the fatal disease, dogwood anthracnose, by removing fungal-friendly conditions.
Researchers from USDA Forest Service and Tennessee Technological University provide the first descriptions of Indiana bat maternity habitats in the southeastern United States. The study reveals that female bats form colonies under coniferous trees, expanding the known habitat range of the endangered species.
A Cornell University study found city-grown air pollution, particularly ozone, hinders rural tree growth. Contrary to expectations, city trees outperformed their country counterparts in terms of biomass.
The study found that cold-tolerant genera are more likely to survive than drought-tolerant ones. Tree genera are expected to show limited evolutionary adaptability in the face of climatic changes.
Researchers tested ancient tree species to disprove the carbon loss hypothesis, which suggested deciduous trees had an advantage in polar forests. The study found that deciduous trees actually lose more carbon than evergreen trees, challenging the long-held theory.
Francisco Ayala and Camilo J. Cela-Conde propose trimming the human evolutionary tree from seven branches to four, including a new branch Praeanthropus. This simplification aims to provide a clearer overview of human evolution.