Whitebark Pine Mutualism
Clark's Nutcracker is the primary seed disperser for Whitebark Pine (Pinus albicaulis). Whitebark Pine is in decline throughout its range, due to infection by White Pine Blister Rust (Cronartium ribicola), widespread outbreaks of Mountain Pine Beetle, and the long term effects of fire suppression. The Clark's Nutcracker is an integral part of the Whitebark Pine restoration process: the Clark's Nutcracker must remain in Whitebark Pine forests and cache the seeds in excess, so that healthy Whitebark Pine will continue to grow. If Whitebark Pine declines into extinction, the Clark's Nutcracker will lose an important source of food and may no longer be seen in areas where Whitebark Pine is the primary source of seed, such as Glacier National Park.
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Famous quotes containing the word pine:
“Before I finally went into winter quarters in November, I used to resort to the north- east side of Walden, which the sun, reflected from the pitch pine woods and the stony shore, made the fireside of the pond; it is so much pleasanter and wholesomer to be warmed by the sun while you can be, than by an artificial fire. I thus warmed myself by the still glowing embers which the summer, like a departed hunter, had left.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)