🌲 Canopy Complexity & Forest Productivity in the Qinling Mountains
🌲 Forest canopies are more than just layers of leaves — they are living architectures that shape how entire ecosystems function. In the Qinling Mountains , researchers are uncovering how forest canopy structural complexity directly influences productivity and ecological stability. From tall emergent trees to dense understories, these vertical and horizontal layers help forests capture more sunlight, cycle nutrients efficiently, and support richer biodiversity. The result? Healthier forests that grow faster and store more carbon, strengthening their role in climate regulation. 🌿 🌦️ But productivity alone isn’t enough — stability matters too. Complex canopies act like natural buffers against environmental stress such as drought, heatwaves, and storms. Diverse tree heights and species create microclimates that reduce temperature extremes and conserve soil moisture. This layered structure spreads ecological risks, ensuring that when one group of trees struggles, ...
