Science
Botanists puzzle over lack of acorns Washington | November 30, 2008 12:01:13 AM IST
Botanists say they're puzzled about why oak trees from Virginia to Kansas and north to Nova Scotia failed to produce acorns this year. It's a zero year. There's zero production. I've never seen anything like this before, said Rod Simmons, a field botanist in Virginia. At least 20 different species of oak trees in a large swath of North America failed to produce acorns this year and botanists are watching closely to determine if it is part of a natural cycle for the trees, which can live more than 200 years, The Washington Post reported Sunday. The cause also may be weather-related or environmental and related to global warning, though botanists in other parts of North America report a normal acorn harvest, the Post reported. If you're a squirrel, it's a big worry. But it's no problem for the oak tree. They live a long time. They'll produce acorns again when they're ready to, said Alan Whittemire, a botanist at the U.S. Arboretum in Washington. (UPI)
Viewer's Comment |
Comments Not Available |
|
| |
Chemicals used in industrial applications may affect cholesterol levels Now, video game that improves intelligence Chemical that regulates circadian rhythm identified Here\'s how you can shoot the perfect free throw Meet Liam Gallagher, the footie star Gerard Butler desperate to remain true to his Scottish roots Thandie Newton fell in love with hubby at first sight Russell Brand tired of "Googling" himself
|