thumbnail

Ecology and evolution of pine life histories

Annals of Forest Science
By:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13595-012-0201-8

Links

Abstract

Introduction - Pinus is a diverse genus of trees widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Understanding pine life history is critical to both conservation and fire management. Objectives - Here I lay out the different pathways of pine life history adaptation and a brief overview of pine evolution and the very significant role that fire has played. Results - Pinus originated ~150 Ma in the mid-Mesozoic Era and radiated across the northern continent of Laurasia during the Cretaceous Period. Pines have followed two evolutionary strategies interpreted as responses to competition by the newly emerging angiosperms. The Strobus lineage mostly has radiated into stressful sites of low nutrient soils and extremes in cold or heat. The Pinus (subgenus) lineage has radiated into fire-prone landscapes with diverse fire regimes. Examination of life history traits illustrates syndromes associated with fire-avoider, fire-tolerater, fire-embracer, and fire-refuge strategies. Conclusion - Understanding the current pattern of pine distribution requires interpreting their evolution in terms of climate, geology, and fire. All three of these factors have played a role since the Mesozoic origin of the genus. All are important to the appropriate management of these resources.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Ecology and evolution of pine life histories
Series title Annals of Forest Science
DOI 10.1007/s13595-012-0201-8
Volume 69
Issue 4
Year Published 2012
Language English
Publisher Springer
Contributing office(s) Western Ecological Research Center
Description 9 p.
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Annals of Forest Science
First page 445
Last page 453
Country United States
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details