Browsing by Author "Waring, R.H."

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    Coupling stress physiology with ecosystem analysis
    (2007) Waring, R.H.
    To improve our understanding of how ecosystems operate, identify whether they are under external or self-induced stress, and prescribe appropriate cures, a marriage between stress physiology and ecosystem analysis is advocated. How carbon products are distributed within plants is a sensitive measure of stress; similarly, the quality of detrital carbon reflects the nutritional status of its source and the rate at which it may be processed by heterotrophic organisms. Biochemical indicators such as adeno-phosphate ratios and levels of stored metabolites also may provide insight into the early development of stress. Subtle stress experiments in ecosystems are presented as alternatives to conventional analyses.
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    Evergreen Coniferous Forests of the Pacific Northwest Massive long-lived conifers dominating these forests are adapted to a winter-wet, summer-dry environment.
    (1979-06) Waring, R.H.; Franklin, J.F.
    The massive, evergreen coniferous forests in the Pacific Northwest are unique among temperate forest regions of the world. The region's forests escaped decimation during Pleistocene glaciation; they are now dominated by a few broadly distributed and well-adapted conifers that grow to large size and great age. Large trees with evergreen needle- or scale-like leaves have distinct advantages under the current climatic regime. Photosynthesis and nutrient uptake and storage are possible during the relatively warm, wet fall and winter months. High evaporative demand during the warm, dry summer reduces photosynthesis. Deciduous hardwoods are repeatedly at a disadvantage in competing with conifers in the regional climate. Their photosynthesis is predominantly limited to the growing season when evaporative demand is high and water is often limiting. Most nutrients needed are also less available at this time. The large size attained by conifers provides a buffer against environmental stress (especially for nutrients and moisture). The long duration between destructive fires and storms permits conifers to outgrow hardwoods with more limited stature and life spans.
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    Water relations and hydrologic cycles
    (1980) Waring, R.H.; James J. Rogers; Swank, W.T.