Wolves, moose, and tree rings on Isle Royale
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1994
Abstract
Investigation of tree growth in Isle Royale National Park in Michigan revealed the influence of herbivores and carnivores on plants in an intimately linked food chain. Plant growth rates were regulated by cycles in animal density and responded to annual changes in primary productivity only when released from herbivory by wolf predation. Isle Royale's dendrochronology complements a rich literature on food chain control in aquatic systems, which often supports a trophic cascade model. This study provides evidence of top-down control in a forested ecosystem.
Publication Title
Science
Recommended Citation
McLaren, B.,
&
Peterson, R.
(1994).
Wolves, moose, and tree rings on Isle Royale.
Science,
266(5190), 1555-1558.
http://doi.org/10.1126/science.266.5190.1555
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p/12245