barren trees revealing fractal patterns in the forest canopy. (click pic or link x, x, x, x, x, x)
I wonder why tree tops don’t touch.
crown shyness (also known as intercrown spacing) is a phenomenon observed in some tree species, wherein the crowns of fully stocked trees do not touch each other, forming a canopy with channel like gaps. the phenomenon is most prevalent among trees of the same species, but also occurs between trees of different species.
the exact cause of crown shyness is still debated. some argue it prevents abrasions and collisions between trees swaying in the wind. others hold that the growing tips of branches are sensitive to light levels and stop growing when nearing adjacent foliage, with fewer buds developing in parts of the crown that are already dense. and some believe that it’s a way for trees to prevent the spread of leaf eating insect larvae.
trees communicate with each other via a vast underground fungal network of mycelium, which they tap into through their roots in order to help one another survive. they use this “wood wide web,” as it’s actually called, to warn other trees of predators and drought, to share nutrients with those in need, and to even limit competition for sunlight. they may not be ents, but trees do talk to each other.
Thoughtfulfangirling 