Ecologist Akhil Javad faced the challenge of studying tropical trees in the Indian Western Ghats mountains by climbing trees that were five times his height to place sensors on leaves to measure their temperature. His research, along with colleagues, found that tropical trees may be more resilient to rising global temperatures than previously thought. The study, published in Global Change Biology, revealed that as daily high temperatures in the region exceed 37° Celsius, trees can experience damage if leaf temperatures reach 46.7° C, causing photosynthetic machinery to shut down.
During the summer months in the region, leaf temperatures can surpass critical thresholds for photosynthesis efficiency, posing potential risks to tree health. The study focused on cumulative heat exposure in tropical trees, with sensors placed on a plantation growing various crops. Despite challenges such as sensor damage by wildlife and weather disruptions, the research shed light on the importance of studying heat exposure in tropical ecosystems.
Andy Leigh, a plant ecologist not involved in the study, emphasized the significance of the research, highlighting the importance of understanding how natural systems will respond to climate change. By continuously monitoring leaf and air temperatures, researchers determined species-specific critical thresholds for tree health in the study area. The data showed that trees were able to maintain photosynthesis efficiency despite occasional exposure to high temperatures that could damage leaves.
The findings suggest that trees in tropical forests may continue to photosynthesize with minimal reduction in efficiency even as temperatures rise. However, exposure to elevated temperatures, even for short periods, could impact other aspects of tree health, such as reproduction and drought resistance. Researchers are now exploring the indirect impacts of heat on tree ecosystems, including in Australia. The study has sparked growing interest in studying heat exposure in ecosystems worldwide, with researchers expected to use temperature sensors to investigate the effects of rising temperatures on tree health.
Despite the challenges of studying heat exposure in tropical forests, the research provides valuable insights into how tropical trees are weathering global warming. The study’s focus on cumulative heat exposure and the resilience of tropical trees to rising temperatures contributes to a better understanding of how ecosystems will respond to climate change. By overcoming logistical obstacles and conducting fieldwork to place sensors on trees, researchers are paving the way for further research on the impact of heat exposure on tree ecosystems around the world.
