Allelopathy in Pine Trees
Allelopathy is a chemical process that occurs in plants. It is a natural self defense mechanism that prevents other plants or trees from growing too close. Some pine trees are allelopathic, allowing them to grow without fighting for space.
Identification
Pine trees use allelopathy when they shed their pine needles. When these needles fall to the ground, they prevent other plants and trees from growing underneath, stopping them from robbing space and nutrients from the pine tree.
Function
These pine needles all contain an acid that leaches into the ground as the needles begin to decompose. These acids do not hurt the pine tree or its roots but act as a deterrent to other plants looking to move into the area.
Fun Fact
Scientists study allelopathy in pine trees and other plants such as sunflowers and black walnut trees and use the results to develop natural herbicides and pesticides. Some scientists consider allelopathy an ecological conversation between pine trees and other plant life.
Related Articles
References
Writer Bio
David Harris is a writer living in Portland, Ore. He currently is the editor-in-chief of the online magazine Spectrum Culture. He holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College.
