Trees Talk

In the forests of Canada, scientists discovered that trees can talk to each other. A series of experiments revealed that forest floors hold underground pathways and networks. Fungus roots, called mycelium, spread multitudes of threads into the soil. As they grow, they connect to individual trees and then to more trees as they spread through the forest floor.

Through this network, trees transmit information. They can nurture seedlings, share resources and also signal stresses that can affect growth.

The system can be complex with a hub tree sharing information with as many as 47 other trees and not the same species. It is thought that this system helps natural regeneration in a forest that is damaged.

This video helps explain the process:

A more detailed explanation is contained in this Smithsonian Magazine article. For more information on some amazing trees check out National Geographic.