Question

In areas of permafrost, stands of black spruce are frequently observed in the landscape, while other tree species are noticeably absent. often these stands are referred to as "drunken forests" because many of the black spruce are displaced from their normal vertical alignment. what is the most likely explanation for the unusual growth of these forests in this marginal habitat? in areas of permafrost, stands of black spruce are frequently observed in the landscape, while other tree species are noticeably absent. often these stands are referred to as "drunken forests" because many of the black spruce are displaced from their normal vertical alignment. what is the most likely explanation for the unusual growth of these forests in this marginal habitat? taproot formation is impossible, so trees de

Answer 1

This happens because taproot formation is impossible, so trees developed shallow root beds.

Permafrost is soil that has a temperature below 0 °C (for about two years) and forms a solid matrix which can extend to a depth of hundreds of meters. Because of this structure the permafrost prevents trees from developing deep root systems. As a consequence, the shallow root bed of trees such as black spruce, causes them to lean or even fall.