Microscopic soil creatures could orchestrate massive tree 'migrations'
Monday, May 8, 2017 - 21:51
in Biology & Nature
Warming temperatures are prompting some tree species in the Rocky Mountains to 'migrate' to higher elevations in order to survive. Researchers have discovered that tiny below-ground organisms play a role in this phenomenon -- and could be used to encourage tree migration in order to preserve heat-sensitive species. Their work shows how these invisible biotic communities create 'soil highways' for young trees, meaning they could determine how quickly species march uphill, if at all.