What Lies Beneath: Estimating the Effect of an Invasive Insect on an Area’s Water Cycle
The cascade of effects that result from the presence of a tiny invasive species can be fascinating,
surprising, and maybe more extensive than one would expect. In this case, scientists found that
the effects were much like that of the proverbial iceberg – only a small percentage of the impact
from this invasive insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae), occurs above ground in
the tree this species infests; the rest of the impacts lie below the surface in the groundwater, soil
quality, and the surrounding plant and animal life.
"Research FINDings" is a unique publication of Natural Inquirer. Written for adults as well as students, these articles present Forest Service research in a simple, short format.
This article is based on the Natural Inquirer monograph "Woolly Bully" (in the Related Content tab below).
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Chelcy Ford-Miniat
As a tree ecophysiologist, I study the various functions of trees in relation to the area in which they are growing. One aspect of my research that I enjoy more...View Profile -
James Vose
I grew up near the city of Chicago, and I lived in a very crowded neighborhood. I spent Saturdays with my uncle who lived on a farm surrounded by woods....View Profile
Related Resources from the Natural Inquirer
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This monograph examines research done in the Coweeta Experimental Forest. In 1934, research began in this forest that looked at how forests affect the streams that flow through them. In...Woolly Bully – Vol. 1 No. 3
This monograph examines research done in the Coweeta Experimental Forest. In 1934, research began in this forest that looked at how forests affect the streams that flow through them. In...
Additional Resources
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Hemlock Restoration Initiative
Visit WebsiteRead more about the initiative’s short- and long-term projects in hemlock restoration and learn more about what you can do to help.
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USDA Forest Service: Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory
Visit WebsiteLearn more about the Coweeta Hydrologic Lab and its ongoing research projects.
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Coweeta Longterm Ecological Research
Visit WebsiteLearn more about the research done at Coweeta on this archival site.