Why Do These Trees Refuse to Touch?

Crown shyness is a phenomenon where tree crowns avoid touching, creating gaps in the canopy. It occurs in specific species and conditions. Hypotheses include wind-induced contact, shade response, and allelopathy. Wind may cause branches to break, limiting growth. Shade affects light absorption, promoting upward growth. Allelopathy suggests chemical compounds influence neighboring trees, though unproven. Multiple mechanisms likely contribute to crown shyness.

What is crown shyness and under what circumstances is it observed?

What are some hypotheses that scientists have regarding the cause of crown shyness?

How do trees respond to the shade of other trees according to the text?

What role do phytochromes play in the growth of trees in relation to light?

Discuss the concept of allelopathy and its potential relation to crown shyness.