All tagged Trees

 ‘Ōhi‘a Lehua Forests and ROD

 ‘Ōhi‘a Lehua Forests and ROD

Grace Klein
Environmental Policy, Science & Nature

 ‘Ōhi‘a trees are the bedrock of Hawaiian forests. Not only do they provide watershed protection and are a specific critical habitat for many biota, but they are also a critical food source for endemic birds (Friday and Herbert). ‘Ōhi‘a forests grow on the six largest Hawaiian islands: the Big Island, Maui, Moloka`i, Lana`i, Oahu, and Kaua`i. They are a resilient species, tolerant of various conditions such as frost, volcanic gases, and extreme changes in moisture (Friday and Herbert). “ ‘Ōhi‘a trees seed prolifically but grow slowly. They survive by colonizing lava flows or fallen logs in forest gaps where other vegetation cannot compete” (Friday and Herbert). This article explores endemic and endangered Hawaiian plants by examining the ‘Ōhi‘a lehua tree, and its history and importance in Hawaiian culture.  

Leveraging AI and Machine Learning in DNA Sequencing for Tree Phylogenetics

Leveraging AI and Machine Learning in DNA Sequencing for Tree Phylogenetics

Aidan O'Leary
Science & Nature

Scientists have been able to uncover evolutionary relationships between different plant species utilizing DNA sequencing. Studying these relationships is beneficial for our understanding of biodiversity and conservation biology. Additionally, we can improve our conservation efforts, detect invasive species, and understand the effects of climate change. Today, artificial intelligence plays a crucial role. It helps monitor read alignment, variant detection and analysis, and Genome assembly. In addition, it serves other functions that we will further explore throughout the article.

Why Our Cities Need More Trees: The Environmental and Social Benefits

Why Our Cities Need More Trees: The Environmental and Social Benefits

Lewis Saint Victor II
Environmental Policy

Trees are an essential part of the natural world and play a vital role in our lives. They provide us with the oxygen we need to breathe and the wood we use for fuel and building materials. Trees also help to regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air and releasing oxygen. In addition, trees provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife and are an essential food source for many animals. Trees can also have some social and psychological benefits. They can provide a sense of beauty and tranquility and serve as a gathering place for communities. Finally, trees can have economic benefits, increasing property values and making neighborhoods more attractive. Trees are an essential part of our environment and lives, and we should do everything we can to protect and preserve them.