Annual-Ring Width and Density Patterns in Red Alder

Authors

  • M. L. Parker
  • J. H. G. Smith
  • S. Johnson

Keywords:

Alnus rubra Bong, X-ray densitometry, red alder, ring width, density patterns

Abstract

X-ray densitometry was used to measure ring width and ring density in eight red alder (Alnus rubra Bong.) trees from British Columbia. Mean, minimum, and maximum ring density were studied in detail and summary intra-ring density profiles were produced. Generally there is a negative trend in ring width from pith to bark. There is no trend in specific gravity that is both strong and consistent. False annual rings and faint and microscopic rings make the definition of ring boundaries diffcult and may lead to incorrect estimates of tree age.

References

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Published

2007-06-28

Issue

Number 2 / Summer 1978

Section

Research Contributions

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