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PLANTS AND LIFE PROCESSES  
Why treelines?

Learning objectives

 

   You will ...

  

   You will learn ...

  • note that all definitions of "treeline" are conventions and inherently unprecise
     
  • acknowledge the bioclimatic differences between trees and non-trees
     
  • acquire a global picture of the treeline phenomenon
     
 

  • to differentiate between local peculiarities and common patterns
     
  • to distinguish between conventions and facts
     
  • to follow a logical chain of arguments despite uncertainty in details
     

   You will understand ...

  

   You will be able to ...

  • why there are high elevation treelines
     
  • that not every treeline is a climatic treeline
     
  • why structure (life form) can overrule primary metabolism
     
 

  • distinguish between climatic and other reasons for forest boundaries
     
  • interpret recent trends in tree growth near the treeline
     
  • judge the weight of various potential determinants of treelines
     

 

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29 August 2011
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