| As we approach Niwot Ridge, the trees are noticeably smaller and
shrub-like. Here in the ecotone, we see the transition between forest and tundra biomes.
It's noticeably windier as we move away from the protection offered by the subalpine
forest.
Arriving near the elevation of the tundra, the harsh environment fragments the forest edge into isolated tree islands. The streamlined shape of "cushion trees" are a direct reflection of this windswept site. Vegetation grows in the down wind direction. Examining the upwind side of this krummholtz vegetation reveals desiccated (dried) limbs. Tundra communities of herbs and shrubs are found interspersed between these islands. As we proceed towards higher elevations, tree islands give way to the a complete cover of tundra vegetation. |
Figure
3.1 "Krummholz"cushion trees on Niwot Ridge (Photo Credit: Michael Ritter)
