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Posted on January 22, 2024 by The Art of Ecology

Interpreting Tree Rings

We know that in looking at a tree slice, we can count the rings to tell the age, but did you know that we can learn a LOT more than just age from the rings? What are Tree Rings? When you cut a slice of tree, you are left with what’s called a Tree Cookie. …

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Marissa Jacobs | NatGeo Certified Educator | Photographer
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Happy National Wildlife day everyone! While I love looking at cute animals, it's important to take action to conserve and protect all biodiversity.
Trees have some amazing ways to adapt to the harshness of nature. When a tree is stressed, it can trigger bud cells, hidden under the bark, to activate and start growing, producing branches at unexpected (to us) spots, like at the very base of the tree. This allows the tree to put out very quick growth that reaches up fast to grab whatever sunlight it can in an effort to help provide vital energy to the sad tree. In this case, the willow was knocked over, but its primary roots were able to stay in the soil. The willow activated the bud cells at the trunk, and new shoots (also often called water sprouts) sprang up quickly, getting light to help the stressed willow still survive. Even if the original canopy winds up failing, these sprouts can take over and give the tree another many years of life! While this is a sign of stress, it is also a sign of adaptation and resilience. Other stressors can be too much salt, soil compaction, poor pruning, storm damage, over-herbivory, or pathogens. Have you seen this happen in trees?
I had the opportunity to observe this Japanese Beetle under my microscope. Every chance I have to get to know tiny creatures more, I can't help but appreciate them more too! While I was investigating their shiny, iridescent elytra (outer wing covers), I saw just how "fuzzy" the beetle body was. From the Setae, or specialized hairs, on their legs, to the funny little white fringes on their body, they definitely have more fluff than first glance reveals.
With all of this rain, I have been seeing a ton of snails, slugs, and worms about! High levels of humidity and moist environments help these soft-bodied critters thrive. Hard, dry terrain can damage their skin and prevent them from digging small holes or covering themselves to protect themselves from the elements. Moist air also helps them breathe properly and aids in reproduction! While they often aren't out during the storm itself - raindrops are super huge to critters so tiny - they come out in full force immediately after!
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