Canopy Science
The ground above our heads
Canopy science studies the ecosystem that exists in the canopy of dense forests. Research in this field has led to discoveries of the fungus Marasmius in tropical forests. This fungus creates fungal nets that create a web to capture falling leaves and debris. As this material gathers in the fungal nets, it eventually breaks down into soil, creating a habitat high above the forest floor for insects and plants—which is crucial to the overall health of the forest.
In more temperate forests, like the Pacific Northwest, the huge branches of old growth conifers spread out side by side. This creates an area for soil to build up and a large space for ferns and fruiting plants to grow, creating an abundant food source and shelter for birds and other wildlife. The dense vegetation also creates a microclimate in the canopy, regulating the temperature.
As we learn more about forest canopies, we're learning that they're almost mini forests in their own right, contributing to the health of the forest and its wildlife.
A redwood forest canopy with fern mats growing on branches at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Courtesty of Save the Redwoods.