Abstract
Bristlecone pine has been called the world’s oldest known living thing. The tree grows in mountainous terrain near timberline in three southwestern states. Because of the species’ longevity, sensitivity to climatic fluctuations, and unique growth form, it has attracted considerable attention from both scientists and recreationists. This paper discusses bristlecone pine in relation to its environment in east-central Nevada and sets forth criteria for recognizing trees that may be old or sensitive to climatic changes.
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Additional information
Associate Hydrologist stationed at Forest Hydrology Laboratory, which the Southern Forest Experiment Station, USDA Forest Service, maintains at Oxford, Miss., in cooperation with the University of Mississippi, and Professor Department of Watershed Management, University of Arizona, Tucson, respectively. A Contribution of the Arizona Agricultural Experiment Station, Journal article No. 2123, and the USDA Forest Service, Region Four.
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Beasley, R.S., Klemmedson, J.O. Recognizing site adversity and drought-sensitive trees in stands of bristlecone pine (Pinus longaeva). Econ Bot 27, 141–146 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02862228
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02862228