Fall trees at UMD

This picture was taken on November 7th on the UMD Campus near the Chapel. The trees in this picture demonstrate the genetic variations among tree types through their differences in spectrum of color change. The leaves on trees change color in the fall in reaction to the lower amount of sunlight and the colder temperatures. However, trees change at different times according to their ability to adapt to the change from summer to winter. All of the trees in this picture are genetically different than each other which is why they are all adapting to the changing of seasons at different rates. If all of the trees in this picture were clones of each other (such as Aspens or Poplar trees), the leaves would all change at the same time.

Genetic variation in trees helps them survive and adapt to the changing environment. As climate change becomes a reality, trees will have to find a way to adapt quickly. Trees adapt through genetic selection over time. If the climate significantly changes faster than trees can keep up, trees may be in danger.

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