How the shaft works

Morphogenesis and fundamental processes in tree development

               Primary growth (organogenesis and elongation; cauline & root)

               Secondary growth (functioning of cambium and phellogen)

               Branching and branching patterns

               Reproduction (from flower to fruit) and reproductive phenology

Tree architecture

               Architectural models

               The concept of architectural unity

               The reiteration

               Senescence and decline

               Morphogenetic gradients

               Root architecture

               Diversity, variability, and plasticity in tree functioning and adaptation

Structure-time relationships: dendrochronological approaches      

               Phenology and chronobiology

               Primary growth, branching, flowering, and morpho-anatomical markers

               Cambial function and growth rings

               A posteriori reconstruction of tree development

Ecophysiology and functional architecture of trees             

               Mechanical support

               Root absorption (including the role of mycorrhizae)

               Conduction

               Photosynthesis

               Reserves

               Reproduction

               Trade-offs and compromises between functions

Adaptations and structure-function relationships

               Adaptation to herbivory (spines, underground stems, latex, chemical compounds, etc.)

               Resistance to pathogens (bark, latex, etc.)

               Fire resistance (bark, ability to regrow, pyrophytes, etc.)

               Drought tolerance/resistance

Wood that marks history

               Anthracology

               Dendrochronology / dendroclimatology

               Marker of vegetation, land use, climate

               Practical work: analysis of cores after drying...

EU HAW703 aims to provide students with knowledge about tree development and functioning through an integrative approach. The biological cycle of trees is thus addressed through the spatial and temporal development of their architecture, anatomy, and major functions. Diversity is addressed through examples of Mediterranean, temperate, and tropical species and their adaptations to their environment.

Understand and describe the architecture of the tree by analyzing its primary and secondary growth.

Identify the genetic and environmental parameters that influence primary growth, cambial function, and duraminization.

Differentiating between the main tree species in standing and solid wood

Perceiving how trees are adapting to climate change.