This summer, there have been frequent heat waves across a large portion of the United States, which has increased the risk of droughts, fires, and general discomfort. The boreal forest, a distinctive ecosystem in the northern hemisphere and one of the largest carbon sinks in the world, has been affected by the heat wave as well. The boreal forest provides many diverse … [Read more...] about The Boreal Forest’s Risky Impacts of Climate Change
It’s Difficult to Plant Trees in the City
The practice of planting trees has gained in popularity as a response to climate change issues in recent years, but not just the wild forest requires attention. Urban forests—trees that have been planted in urban areas—are just as important as natural forests. Cities may use trees to reduce flooding, sequester carbon, and give shade. But planting trees involves more than … [Read more...] about It’s Difficult to Plant Trees in the City
Why Belowground Ecosystem Is Important
All the credit goes to trees. However, the soil, roots, fungi, and microbes underneath the surface of a forest play an equally significant role. The aboveground ecology has historically been the subject of more research. "Aboveground creatures, tree stands, and the forest floor are instantly recognizable components of a forest ecosystem; one does not generally mention … [Read more...] about Why Belowground Ecosystem Is Important
The Winter Survival of Insects
Animals defend themselves from the cold in a variety of ways. Bears hibernate, which is known information. They overeat to raise their fat reserves in order to survive the winter, and then they seek shelter in warm dens. Some animals spend the winter hiding out underground, beneath the snow, or underwater. However, species that spend their winters above ground must withstand … [Read more...] about The Winter Survival of Insects
Old Growth: What It Is and Why It Matters
Old growth forests are well known for their aesthetic appeal as well as for their importance in both culture and history. Old growth, however, refers to more than just the age of the trees. It is challenging to define old growth in a way that will apply to all forests, according to Merrill R. Kauffman, the author of a research on western old growth. For others, an old growth … [Read more...] about Old Growth: What It Is and Why It Matters