We often think of trees as simple objects that provide us with things we need, such as lumber, shade, or fruit. Yet trees are far more complex-and social-than we recognize. An underground network of fungi, which some have called the “wood-wide web,” connects the roots of numerous trees in a forest. Using the network, trees can communicate with and support one another. They may share water, carbon, nutrients, and protective compounds with one another. Scientists believe that one explanation for this phenomenon may be a “source-sink model.” According to this theory, trees growing in excellent conditions with many resources transfer these resources to trees growing in less favorable conditions. In this way, trees in a forest ensure the health of the entire community by working cooperatively.
What is the main idea of the passage?
Different parts of a forest may provide different conditions for trees, some more and some less favorable for growth.
Trees in a forest work to support one another by using an underground fungal network.
The wood-wide web is an underground fungal network of connections between trees.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Trees in a forest work to support one another by using an underground fungal network.
Explanation:
The passage highlights a fascinating aspect of trees in a forest that goes beyond their basic functions of providing resources like shade and lumber. It explains the existence of a complex underground network of fungi, sometimes referred to as the “wood-wide web,” that connects the roots of different trees. This network allows trees to communicate and share resources such as water, carbon, nutrients, and protective compounds. This suggests that trees are not solitary organisms but part of a cooperative system that ensures the survival and health of the entire forest community.
The passage also mentions the “source-sink model,” which helps to explain why trees might share resources. In this model, trees that are growing in favorable conditions with plenty of resources act as the “source,” transferring excess resources to trees in less favorable conditions, which are the “sinks.” This sharing helps maintain balance and ensures that even weaker trees have a better chance of survival, promoting the overall health of the forest.
Although the idea of different parts of the forest providing different conditions for growth is touched upon, the core message of the passage centers around how trees collaborate and support each other through this underground fungal network. This discovery challenges the traditional view of trees as isolated entities and emphasizes the social, interconnected nature of forest ecosystems. The “wood-wide web” plays a vital role in sustaining the forest as a whole, enabling it to thrive through mutual support.