Aspen Bibliography
Technique to Improve Visualization of Elusive Tree-Ring Boundaries in Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Tree Ring Research
Volume
66
Issue
1
First Page
75
Last Page
78
Publication Date
1-2010
Abstract
A simple, quick, and inexpensive technique to improve visualization of aspen (Populus tremuloides) tree rings under the microscope, the ‘shadow technique’, is described. The technique assumes appropriate preparation of increment cores or cross-sections and works well on the lighter portions of the sample with fungus- and bacteria-free wood. The shadow technique was used successfully to elucidate tree-ring boundaries in small diameter (DBH) aspen from northern Utah that commonly had >100 annual rings. Crossdating verified whether the elusive rings were missing or false rings. Aspen tree-ring measurement will be greatly enhanced with the shadow technique and preliminary investigation suggests it could be used on other species such as curlleaf mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius).
Recommended Citation
DeRose, Justin R. 2010. Technique to improve visualization of elusive tree-ring boundaries in aspen (populus tremuloides). Tree-Ring Society. 66(1): 75-78.
