Giant trees have no trouble pumping water to top branches
New research published in Science reveals that giant Dipterocarp trees in Malaysian Borneo have evolved hydraulic systems that allow them to transport water to their highest branches without increased vulnerability to drought. This challenges previous theories that height limits tree growth due to water transport constraints.
Why it matters
Advances our understanding of forest ecology and how the world's tallest trees might respond to climate change.
A 57m tall Dipterocarp tree with a double rope technique rigged for canopy access. Credit Palasiah Jotan
The article reports on peer-reviewed scientific findings without subjective bias.
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