I was curious and looked it up. Apparently it mostly happens between trees of the same species, with several causes.
Most are mechanical. The tips brush against each other, and damage new branches and leaves. Both trees divert growth away from the area.
Some also sense shading via red light. They focus growth away from shade. This means neither tree grows into the gap, since they are partially shading each other.
It also helps limit the spread of leaf eating parasites. Again, particularly useful in a forest of the same species.
So yes, the trees are social distancing, to avoid the spread of disease.
Considering how little conflict we currently have, compared to our population size, we are doing extremely well. Unfortunately, the conflicts remaining are spectacular enough to counter that.
But we’re also incredibly urbanised, with basically half our population living in 2 cities alone. That’s more beneficial to a virus spreading than simply population size.
I was curious and looked it up. Apparently it mostly happens between trees of the same species, with several causes.
Most are mechanical. The tips brush against each other, and damage new branches and leaves. Both trees divert growth away from the area.
Some also sense shading via red light. They focus growth away from shade. This means neither tree grows into the gap, since they are partially shading each other.
It also helps limit the spread of leaf eating parasites. Again, particularly useful in a forest of the same species.
So yes, the trees are social distancing, to avoid the spread of disease.
Lol I thought you said you looked up at the trees, and just observed all those facts
So you’re saying the trees can accomplish what humanity never could.
Considering how little conflict we currently have, compared to our population size, we are doing extremely well. Unfortunately, the conflicts remaining are spectacular enough to counter that.
We did a good job down here, sounds like your country must’ve sucked at it.
Australia?
Ye.
Yeah i thought we went well too.
To be fair though or population density is so low, there’s more people in some cities then our country
But we’re also incredibly urbanised, with basically half our population living in 2 cities alone. That’s more beneficial to a virus spreading than simply population size.
Trees hella smart.
balances -> branches* :)