Biophysical and Ecological constraints on Maximum Tree Height: Insights from the Three Tallest Tree Species
Koch GW, Sillett SC, Van Pelt RS. 2004. Biophysical and Ecological constraints on Maximum Tree Height: Insights from the Three Tallest Tree Species
Excerpt from Project Summary: "Organisms of great size hold an inherent fascination for humans, and giant trees in particular are valued for their grandeur, increasing rarity, and dependent biodiversity. Despite their aesthetic, ecological, and economic importance, very little is known of the factors regulating carbon metabolism, water use, and vulnerability to climate change in tall trees. Through a combination of physiological, structural, and growth analyses, this study of Earth’s three tallest species aims to answer fundamental questions regarding the size limits of terrestrial organisms and consider the mechanisms by which trees have overcome fundamental constraints imposed by gravity. In comparing structural and physiological features across heights of these species, the study will build an understanding of how biophysical and ecological factors interact to determine the maximum height of trees. The field experiments will be unprecedented in terms of the application of sophisticated technical approaches at heights of over 90 meters in redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans)."
- Type
- Administrative
- Authors
- Koch, George; Sillett, Stephen; Van Pelt, Robert
- Date of Issue
- 2004-07-09
- Units
- REDW
- Keywords
- biomass, carbon balance, climate change, Coast Redwood, Douglas Fir, micro climate, Mountain Ash, Proposal, Tree Growth analysis, water potential