Investigating the growth dynamics of mamane (Sophora chrysophylla) on Maunakea, Hawai`i using radiocarbon dating and classical dendrochronology methods

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2012

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ProQuest LLC

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Abstract

When trees form annual growth rings, the patterns can be used to provide information on tree age and growth dynamics that is essential to developing appropriate forest management strategies. Annual rings are not commonly produced in tropical trees because they grow in a relatively aseasonal environment, however, in the subalpine zones of Hawai'i's highest volcanoes, there is often strong seasonal variability in temperature and rainfall. Using a combination of classical dendrochronology methods and radiocarbon dating I determined that annual growth rings occur in mamane ( Sophora chrysophylla ), a native hardwood tree species, on Maunakea, Hawai'i. I developed a baseline chronology for mamane, and used this to explore the relationship between local precipitation and the growth dynamics of this native tree. I also used tree-rings to estimate the age and growth rates of these trees. This study is the first in the eastern tropical Pacific region to utilize dendrochronology methods to gain a better understanding of the stand history, growth dynamics, and life history strategies of any of a native forest tree. The results from this research will greatly benefit efforts to protect, conserve, and effectively manage the subalpine forest ecosystem on Maunakea.

Description

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, 2012

Keywords

Biological sciences, Hawaii, Annual rings, Crossdating, Tree age, Tree growth rate, Tree-rings, Tropical trees, Māmane - Hawai'i, Maunakea (Hawaiʻi)

Citation

Investigating the growth dynamics of mamane (Sophora chrysophylla) on Maunakea, Hawai`i using radiocarbon dating and classical dendrochronology methods Francisco, Kainana S.. University of Hawai'i at Hilo, ProQuest Dissertations Publishing, 2012.

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45

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