Forest physiology and phenology

Abstract

The Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study was established to use the small watershed approach to measure and model ecosystem element flux and cycling, but it has evolved to incorporate a complex matrix of projects studying a wide range of biogeochemical and ecological phenomenon. Fundamental to understanding many of these phenomenon is information regarding the structure and function of the defining life form there – trees. The northern hardwood-conifer forest that blankets the Hubbard Brook valley is a biological machine that transforms solar energy, water and mineral nutrients into organic matter. It is a complex and beautiful machine arising from millions of years of evolutionary development of anatomical and physiological traits under the influence of the environment and co-existing organisms. What are the key processes that underlie the dynamics of this machine, this forest ecosystem?

Citation

Fahey, Timothy J.; Schaberg, Paul G. 2019. Forest physiology and phenology. Chapter 14. In: Fahey, T.J., ed. Synthesis of scientific research at Hubbard Brook. Woodstock ,VT: Hubbard Brook Research Founcation. https://hubbardbrook.org/online-book. 19 p.