Earth, Wind, Water, Fire. . . and Competition? Understanding tree community dynamics across the savanna landscape.
Have you ever wondered why trees grow in some areas but not in others? In the African savanna landscape, this pattern may be explained with a little help from the natural elements and ecological relationships. Professor Ricardo Holdo of the University of Missouri seeks to understand how different ecological forces such as competition, fire, grazing, soil composition, and climate influence the growth and distribution of tree communities in southern and eastern Africa.
Ricardo’s work uses a range of different research approaches to explore these questions, including observational data, field experiments, computer modeling with satellite imagery and remote sensing data, and ecological theory.
Tune in to find out more about this fascinating ecosystem and to hear Ricardo’s advice for young scientists entering the field!