2022-05-11T14:43:28Z

Rlkolsch:

[[File:Newt.jpg|300px|thumb|right|An Eastern Newt (Eft stage)]]

=Eastern Red Spotted Newt=

The Eastern Red Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) is a salamander native to Eastern North America (Dec). It is a common amphibian (raritan), which means it is cold-blooded (DEC) and can be found in wet forests, small lakes, streams and ponds (portal). They frequently switch between aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives. They have 4 distinct life cycles which they are able to switch between based on their environment. The stages are 1) egg, 2) aquatic larva, 3) eft (terrestrial adult) and 4) newt (aquatic adult) (DEC).

==Description==

==Habitat and Range==

==Life Cycle==

==Diet==

==Behavior==

==References==

Eastern Red Spotted Newt

2022-05-11T14:43:12Z

Rlkolsch:

[[File:Newt.jpg|500px|thumb|right|An Eastern Newt (Eft stage)]]

=Eastern Red Spotted Newt=

The Eastern Red Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) is a salamander native to Eastern North America (Dec). It is a common amphibian (raritan), which means it is cold-blooded (DEC) and can be found in wet forests, small lakes, streams and ponds (portal). They frequently switch between aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives. They have 4 distinct life cycles which they are able to switch between based on their environment. The stages are 1) egg, 2) aquatic larva, 3) eft (terrestrial adult) and 4) newt (aquatic adult) (DEC).

==Description==

==Habitat and Range==

==Life Cycle==

==Diet==

==Behavior==

==References==

Eastern Red Spotted Newt

2022-05-11T14:42:59Z

Rlkolsch: /* Eastern Red Spotted Newt */

[[File:Newt.jpg|200px|thumb|right|An Eastern Newt (Eft stage)]]

=Eastern Red Spotted Newt=

The Eastern Red Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) is a salamander native to Eastern North America (Dec). It is a common amphibian (raritan), which means it is cold-blooded (DEC) and can be found in wet forests, small lakes, streams and ponds (portal). They frequently switch between aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives. They have 4 distinct life cycles which they are able to switch between based on their environment. The stages are 1) egg, 2) aquatic larva, 3) eft (terrestrial adult) and 4) newt (aquatic adult) (DEC).

==Description==

==Habitat and Range==

==Life Cycle==

==Diet==

==Behavior==

==References==

Eastern Red Spotted Newt

2022-05-11T14:42:36Z

Rlkolsch: /* Eastern Red Spotted Newt */

=Eastern Red Spotted Newt=
[[File:Newt.jpg|200px|thumb|left|An Eastern Newt (Eft stage)]]
The Eastern Red Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) is a salamander native to Eastern North America (Dec). It is a common amphibian (raritan), which means it is cold-blooded (DEC) and can be found in wet forests, small lakes, streams and ponds (portal). They frequently switch between aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives. They have 4 distinct life cycles which they are able to switch between based on their environment. The stages are 1) egg, 2) aquatic larva, 3) eft (terrestrial adult) and 4) newt (aquatic adult) (DEC).

==Description==

==Habitat and Range==

==Life Cycle==

==Diet==

==Behavior==

==References==

Eastern Red Spotted Newt

2022-05-11T14:41:38Z

Rlkolsch:

=Eastern Red Spotted Newt=
[[File:|200px|thumb|left|An Eastern Newt (Eft stage)]]
The Eastern Red Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) is a salamander native to Eastern North America (Dec). It is a common amphibian (raritan), which means it is cold-blooded (DEC) and can be found in wet forests, small lakes, streams and ponds (portal). They frequently switch between aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout their lives. They have 4 distinct life cycles which they are able to switch between based on their environment. The stages are 1) egg, 2) aquatic larva, 3) eft (terrestrial adult) and 4) newt (aquatic adult) (DEC).

==Description==

==Habitat and Range==

==Life Cycle==

==Diet==

==Behavior==

==References==

2022-04-29T22:26:26Z

Rlkolsch:

Blue-spotted salamander

2022-04-29T22:01:37Z

Rlkolsch: /* General Description */

== '''General Description '''==

[[File:Blue-Spotted_Salamander.jpeg| 500 px | thumb | Blue-Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterale) in the late fall [3]]]
The Blue-spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterlae) is classified in the Ambystomitidae family. It is black with blue spots and specks all over the body, sides, arms, and tail. A total of 12-14 costal grooves run from the tip of the head to the end of the body. In addition, costal grooves are vertical creases that run along their bodies and have the effect of increasing the skins surface area to increase water absorption. [[Salamanders]] cannot live without having wet skin, so this attribute is of great importance [5]. Adults grow to be 3-5 inches ( 7.6-14 cm), females are slightly larger than males [1]. Additionally, they have five toes on both of their back feet and four on each of their front feet.

== '''Geographic Distribution & Habitat''' ==

The geographic range of this species extends north from the New England area to as far west as Wisconsin and Minnesota. Tolerant of cold temperatures, these Blue-spotted Salamanders are found in both deciduous timbers and coniferous forests with moist woodlands. The existence of [[Vernal Pools|vernal pools]] that maintain water all the way through summer is essential to the sustainability of their habitat. Most likely, they would be found in the leaf litter and logs located along the [[Vernal Pools|vernal pools]] from early spring to mid-fall. During the warmer months, they may even venture out in the open during rain showers [1].

Like many amphibian species, their habitat is threatened by human development. Commercial, residential, and industrial construction all have a negative impact on their populations and habitats. Blue-spotted Salamanders have been classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List [2].

[[File:Blue-spotted_Salamander_Distribution_Map.jpg|400 px | thumb|left|Distrubtion map of Blue-spotted Salamander [4]]]

== '''Ecology''' ==

Their diet consists primarily of small [[invertebrates]] such as snails, earthworms, centipedes, and spiders. Moreover, salamanders may eat aquatic [[insects]] such as water fleas and copepods, especially if they are in breeding pools. When not breeding in the [[Vernal Pools|vernal pools]], they prefer to stay hidden in darkness under logs and fallen leaves. During the night or in the process of a storm, they will go out a lot more because of the abundant moisture that they are provided. If danger exists, these salamanders are capable of producing toxic secretions as a form of defense. [1] The poisonous secretions are part of their defense mechanism for protecting themselves from predators. The unappealing taste deters predators from consuming them.

== '''Reproduction''' ==

Breeding season occurs from late March to early April, when salamanders migrate to the [[Vernal Pools|vernal pools]]. Both male and female Blue-spotted salamanders reach sexual maturity at the age of two years old. In a display of courtship, the male uses its snout to nuzzle and nudge the female. He then mounts the female by using his front legs to hold her body, but then rubs his chin on her head. Breeding sessions can last several hours with the pair periodically coming to the surface for air and afterwards resuming their underwater activity.

After the courting, the male releases the female and deposits a [[spermatophore]] in front of her. If everything goes as planned, the female will move over the spermatophore and take it into her cloaca. The males can produce 10-40 spermatophores in one breeding season, but most are not utilized by the females. Females lay 1-12 eggs per clutch, which are laid in a gelatinous mass usually on leaves, sticks or rocks below the surface of the water. Hatching usually takes about 3 to 5 weeks for these eggs. The larva undergoes metamorphosis in late summer and lives an independent life cycle on land [1].

[[File:AmbystomaComplex.jpg |400 px | thumb | right | Unisex mole complex [6]]]

== '''Relations with Jefferson's Salamander''' ==

Blue-spotted salamanders are known to cross breed with the Jefferson's salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum). This species is commonly known as the Unisex mole complex (Ambystoma unisex complex) since all the members of this complex are female, as they have multiple sets of chromosomes. As a result of their similar physical appearances, these salamanders can often be difficult to correctly identify [7].

== References ==

[1] Harding, J. & Mifsud, D. "Amphibians & Reptiles of the Great Lakes Region". University of Michigan Press, 2017. pg 58-62

[2] "Ambystoma laterale" IUCN Red List of Threatended Species. 2004.

[3] Blue-spotted salamander photographed at Letchworth Woods, University at Buffalo on 25th October 2020 by Nikolai Harper

[4] Photograph of distribution from Harding, J. & Mifsud, D. "Amphibians & Reptiles of the Great Lakes Region". University of Michigan Press, 2017. pg 60

[5] "Critter Connections" Youth Magazine of the Texas Wildlife Association, September 2019

[6] Unisex mole salamander photographed by Josh Vandermeulen on April 7th, 2010 in Ontario, CA, from iNaturalist

[7] "Jefferson/Bluespotted complex" Cortland Herptology Connection, Cramer, C. & Ducey, P. State University of New York College at Cortland.

2022-04-28T02:02:07Z

Rlkolsch: Created page with ":)"

White Ash tree

2022-04-02T04:44:34Z

Rlkolsch: /* Threats */

[[File:whiteash1.jpeg|thumb|right|White Ash tree]]

The White Ash tree, or ''Fraxinus americana'', is a type of ash tree that is native to eastern and central North America.

== Description ==

White ash trees grow between 60 to 100 feet tall on average, with a 2 to 3 foot trunk diameter. It is the largest of the ash trees found in North America. The leaves are opposite, and have between 5 and 9 leaflets. The bark ranges in color from yellow-brown to light grey and has deep furrows. White ash trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

[[File:whiteashleaf.jpeg|thumb|left|White Ash leaves]]

== Distribution ==

The White ash tree is found only in the central and eastern parts of North America, ranging as far north as Nova Scotia, south into northern Florida, and west into the upper areas of Texas and parts of Iowa. Habitats include floodplain woodlands, upland woodlands, shaded gravelly seeps, high riverbanks, limestone glades, and in city parks. 

== Ecological Importance ==

White Ash hosts many species of [[insects]], which feed on parts of the tree. At least 280 [[arthropods]] rely on White Ash trees as a source of food and shelter. Additionally, White Ash trees provide habitat and food for many vertebrates, such as squirrels, deer, various birds, and mice. Ash trees also play an important role in nutrient and water cycling in forests. 

== Threats ==

Due to the accidental introduction of the Emerald Ash Borer, white ash trees have seen a significant decrease in population, and this has led to many adverse ecological effects. Widespread ash mortality severely alters forest habitats and dynamics. This causes loss of habitat and food for many [[organisms]], including 44 species of arthropods that feed exclusively on ash trees.

Additionally, loss of ash trees, and therefore an increase in sunlight on forest floors, may cause an increase in the spread of invasive species, such as honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and autumn olive.

[[File:ashborer.jpeg|thumb|right|Emerald Ash Borer]]

Widespread ash mortality also can alter [[soil]] pH, mineral concentrations, and soil moisture levels, affecting nutrient and water availability for nearby trees and other organisms living in the soil.

Another threat to the White Ash Tree is the [[ascomycete]] fungus disease, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It causes crown dieback and leaf loss in Ash trees resulting in a 69% mortality rate in the wild [2]. Due to the probable immunity of Ash trees of Asian origin, the disease can first be traced back to Europe. It is spread by wind transportation of spores and nursery infestations. When infected, lesions can be found through the stems, branches and xylem of the tree [3]. As of right now there are no effective management strategies to resolve this issue [9].



== References ==

[1] Ash Tree Update 2017 (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). . https://www.nps.gov/articles/ash-tree-update.htm.

[2] Estimating mortality rates of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) under the ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) epidemic - Coker - 2019 - PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). . https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.11.

[3] ETH - Forest Pathology and Dendrology. (n.d.). . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034253/http://www.forestpathology.ethz.ch/research/Chalara_fraxinea/index_EN.

[4] Fraxinus americana - Plant Finder. (n.d.). . https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a867.

[5] Fraxinus americana (American Ash, White Ash) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). . https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fraxinus-americana/.

[6] Maine proposes Emerald Ash Borer quarantine rules. (n.d.). . https://www.wabi.tv/2021/03/17/maine-proposes-emerald-ash-borer-quarantine-rules/.

[7] White Ash. (n.d.). . https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/forestry/iowa_trees/trees/white_ash.html.

[8] White Ash (Fraxinus americana). (n.d.). . https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/white_ash.html.

[9] Are Europe’s ash trees finished? | New Scientist. (n.d.). . https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22449-are-europes-ash-trees-finished/?ignored=irrelevant.

White Ash tree

2022-04-02T04:44:21Z

Rlkolsch: /* Threats */

[[File:whiteash1.jpeg|thumb|right|White Ash tree]]

The White Ash tree, or ''Fraxinus americana'', is a type of ash tree that is native to eastern and central North America.

== Description ==

White ash trees grow between 60 to 100 feet tall on average, with a 2 to 3 foot trunk diameter. It is the largest of the ash trees found in North America. The leaves are opposite, and have between 5 and 9 leaflets. The bark ranges in color from yellow-brown to light grey and has deep furrows. White ash trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

[[File:whiteashleaf.jpeg|thumb|left|White Ash leaves]]

== Distribution ==

The White ash tree is found only in the central and eastern parts of North America, ranging as far north as Nova Scotia, south into northern Florida, and west into the upper areas of Texas and parts of Iowa. Habitats include floodplain woodlands, upland woodlands, shaded gravelly seeps, high riverbanks, limestone glades, and in city parks. 

== Ecological Importance ==

White Ash hosts many species of [[insects]], which feed on parts of the tree. At least 280 [[arthropods]] rely on White Ash trees as a source of food and shelter. Additionally, White Ash trees provide habitat and food for many vertebrates, such as squirrels, deer, various birds, and mice. Ash trees also play an important role in nutrient and water cycling in forests. 

== Threats ==

Due to the accidental introduction of the Emerald Ash Borer, white ash trees have seen a significant decrease in population, and this has led to many adverse ecological effects. Widespread ash mortality severely alters forest habitats and dynamics. This causes loss of habitat and food for many [[organisms]], including 44 species of arthropods that feed exclusively on ash trees.

Additionally, loss of ash trees, and therefore an increase in sunlight on forest floors, may cause an increase in the spread of invasive species, such as honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and autumn olive.

[[File:ashborer.jpeg|thumb|right|Emerald Ash Borer]]

Widespread ash mortality also can alter [[soil]] pH, mineral concentrations, and soil moisture levels, affecting nutrient and water availability for nearby trees and other organisms living in the soil.

Another threat to the White Ash Tree is the [[ascomycete]] fungus disease, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It causes crown dieback and leaf loss in Ash trees resulting in a 69% mortality rate in the wild [2]. Due to the probable immunity of Ash trees of Asian origin, the disease can first be traced back to Europe. It is spread by wind transportation of spores and nursery infestations. When infected, lesions can be found through the stems, branches and xylem of the tree [3]. As of right now there are no effective management strategies to resolve this issue.



== References ==

[1] Ash Tree Update 2017 (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). . https://www.nps.gov/articles/ash-tree-update.htm.

[2] Estimating mortality rates of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) under the ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) epidemic - Coker - 2019 - PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). . https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.11.

[3] ETH - Forest Pathology and Dendrology. (n.d.). . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034253/http://www.forestpathology.ethz.ch/research/Chalara_fraxinea/index_EN.

[4] Fraxinus americana - Plant Finder. (n.d.). . https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a867.

[5] Fraxinus americana (American Ash, White Ash) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). . https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fraxinus-americana/.

[6] Maine proposes Emerald Ash Borer quarantine rules. (n.d.). . https://www.wabi.tv/2021/03/17/maine-proposes-emerald-ash-borer-quarantine-rules/.

[7] White Ash. (n.d.). . https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/forestry/iowa_trees/trees/white_ash.html.

[8] White Ash (Fraxinus americana). (n.d.). . https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/white_ash.html.

[9] Are Europe’s ash trees finished? | New Scientist. (n.d.). . https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22449-are-europes-ash-trees-finished/?ignored=irrelevant.

White Ash tree

2022-04-02T04:42:56Z

Rlkolsch: /* Threats */

[[File:whiteash1.jpeg|thumb|right|White Ash tree]]

The White Ash tree, or ''Fraxinus americana'', is a type of ash tree that is native to eastern and central North America.

== Description ==

White ash trees grow between 60 to 100 feet tall on average, with a 2 to 3 foot trunk diameter. It is the largest of the ash trees found in North America. The leaves are opposite, and have between 5 and 9 leaflets. The bark ranges in color from yellow-brown to light grey and has deep furrows. White ash trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

[[File:whiteashleaf.jpeg|thumb|left|White Ash leaves]]

== Distribution ==

The White ash tree is found only in the central and eastern parts of North America, ranging as far north as Nova Scotia, south into northern Florida, and west into the upper areas of Texas and parts of Iowa. Habitats include floodplain woodlands, upland woodlands, shaded gravelly seeps, high riverbanks, limestone glades, and in city parks. 

== Ecological Importance ==

White Ash hosts many species of [[insects]], which feed on parts of the tree. At least 280 [[arthropods]] rely on White Ash trees as a source of food and shelter. Additionally, White Ash trees provide habitat and food for many vertebrates, such as squirrels, deer, various birds, and mice. Ash trees also play an important role in nutrient and water cycling in forests. 

== Threats ==

Due to the accidental introduction of the Emerald Ash Borer, white ash trees have seen a significant decrease in population, and this has led to many adverse ecological effects. Widespread ash mortality severely alters forest habitats and dynamics. This causes loss of habitat and food for many [[organisms]], including 44 species of arthropods that feed exclusively on ash trees.

Additionally, loss of ash trees, and therefore an increase in sunlight on forest floors, may cause an increase in the spread of invasive species, such as honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and autumn olive.

[[File:ashborer.jpeg|thumb|right|Emerald Ash Borer]]

Widespread ash mortality also can alter [[soil]] pH, mineral concentrations, and soil moisture levels, affecting nutrient and water availability for nearby trees and other organisms living in the soil.

Another threat to the White Ash Tree is the [[ascomycete]] fungus disease, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It causes crown dieback and leaf loss in Ash trees resulting in a 69% mortality rate in the wild [2]. Due to the probable immunity of Ash trees of Asian origin, the disease can first be traced back to Europe. It is spread by wind transportation of spores and nursery infestations. When infected, lesions can be found through the stems, branches and xylem of the tree. As of right now there are no effective management strategies to resolve this issue.



== References ==

[1] Ash Tree Update 2017 (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). . https://www.nps.gov/articles/ash-tree-update.htm.

[2] Estimating mortality rates of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) under the ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) epidemic - Coker - 2019 - PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). . https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.11.

[3] ETH - Forest Pathology and Dendrology. (n.d.). . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034253/http://www.forestpathology.ethz.ch/research/Chalara_fraxinea/index_EN.

[4] Fraxinus americana - Plant Finder. (n.d.). . https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a867.

[5] Fraxinus americana (American Ash, White Ash) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). . https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fraxinus-americana/.

[6] Maine proposes Emerald Ash Borer quarantine rules. (n.d.). . https://www.wabi.tv/2021/03/17/maine-proposes-emerald-ash-borer-quarantine-rules/.

[7] White Ash. (n.d.). . https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/forestry/iowa_trees/trees/white_ash.html.

[8] White Ash (Fraxinus americana). (n.d.). . https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/white_ash.html.

[9] Are Europe’s ash trees finished? | New Scientist. (n.d.). . https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22449-are-europes-ash-trees-finished/?ignored=irrelevant.

White Ash tree

2022-04-02T04:41:56Z

Rlkolsch: /* Threats */

[[File:whiteash1.jpeg|thumb|right|White Ash tree]]

The White Ash tree, or ''Fraxinus americana'', is a type of ash tree that is native to eastern and central North America.

== Description ==

White ash trees grow between 60 to 100 feet tall on average, with a 2 to 3 foot trunk diameter. It is the largest of the ash trees found in North America. The leaves are opposite, and have between 5 and 9 leaflets. The bark ranges in color from yellow-brown to light grey and has deep furrows. White ash trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

[[File:whiteashleaf.jpeg|thumb|left|White Ash leaves]]

== Distribution ==

The White ash tree is found only in the central and eastern parts of North America, ranging as far north as Nova Scotia, south into northern Florida, and west into the upper areas of Texas and parts of Iowa. Habitats include floodplain woodlands, upland woodlands, shaded gravelly seeps, high riverbanks, limestone glades, and in city parks. 

== Ecological Importance ==

White Ash hosts many species of [[insects]], which feed on parts of the tree. At least 280 [[arthropods]] rely on White Ash trees as a source of food and shelter. Additionally, White Ash trees provide habitat and food for many vertebrates, such as squirrels, deer, various birds, and mice. Ash trees also play an important role in nutrient and water cycling in forests. 

== Threats ==

Due to the accidental introduction of the Emerald Ash Borer, white ash trees have seen a significant decrease in population, and this has led to many adverse ecological effects. Widespread ash mortality severely alters forest habitats and dynamics. This causes loss of habitat and food for many [[organisms]], including 44 species of arthropods that feed exclusively on ash trees.

Additionally, loss of ash trees, and therefore an increase in sunlight on forest floors, may cause an increase in the spread of invasive species, such as honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and autumn olive.

[[File:ashborer.jpeg|thumb|right|Emerald Ash Borer]]

Widespread ash mortality also can alter [[soil]] pH, mineral concentrations, and soil moisture levels, affecting nutrient and water availability for nearby trees and other organisms living in the soil.

Another threat to the White Ash Tree is the [[ascomycete]] fungus disease, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It causes crown dieback and leaf loss in Ash trees resulting in a 69% mortality rate in the wild. Due to the probable immunity of Ash trees of Asian origin, the disease can first be traced back to Europe. It is spread by wind transportation of spores and nursery infestations. When infected, lesions can be found through the stems, branches and xylem of the tree. As of right now there are no effective management strategies to resolve this issue.



== References ==

[1] Ash Tree Update 2017 (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). . https://www.nps.gov/articles/ash-tree-update.htm.

[2] Estimating mortality rates of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) under the ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) epidemic - Coker - 2019 - PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). . https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.11.

[3] ETH - Forest Pathology and Dendrology. (n.d.). . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034253/http://www.forestpathology.ethz.ch/research/Chalara_fraxinea/index_EN.

[4] Fraxinus americana - Plant Finder. (n.d.). . https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a867.

[5] Fraxinus americana (American Ash, White Ash) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). . https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fraxinus-americana/.

[6] Maine proposes Emerald Ash Borer quarantine rules. (n.d.). . https://www.wabi.tv/2021/03/17/maine-proposes-emerald-ash-borer-quarantine-rules/.

[7] White Ash. (n.d.). . https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/forestry/iowa_trees/trees/white_ash.html.

[8] White Ash (Fraxinus americana). (n.d.). . https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/white_ash.html.

[9] Are Europe’s ash trees finished? | New Scientist. (n.d.). . https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22449-are-europes-ash-trees-finished/?ignored=irrelevant.

White Ash tree

2022-04-02T04:40:49Z

Rlkolsch: /* References */

[[File:whiteash1.jpeg|thumb|right|White Ash tree]]

The White Ash tree, or ''Fraxinus americana'', is a type of ash tree that is native to eastern and central North America.

== Description ==

White ash trees grow between 60 to 100 feet tall on average, with a 2 to 3 foot trunk diameter. It is the largest of the ash trees found in North America. The leaves are opposite, and have between 5 and 9 leaflets. The bark ranges in color from yellow-brown to light grey and has deep furrows. White ash trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

[[File:whiteashleaf.jpeg|thumb|left|White Ash leaves]]

== Distribution ==

The White ash tree is found only in the central and eastern parts of North America, ranging as far north as Nova Scotia, south into northern Florida, and west into the upper areas of Texas and parts of Iowa. Habitats include floodplain woodlands, upland woodlands, shaded gravelly seeps, high riverbanks, limestone glades, and in city parks. 

== Ecological Importance ==

White Ash hosts many species of [[insects]], which feed on parts of the tree. At least 280 [[arthropods]] rely on White Ash trees as a source of food and shelter. Additionally, White Ash trees provide habitat and food for many vertebrates, such as squirrels, deer, various birds, and mice. Ash trees also play an important role in nutrient and water cycling in forests. 

== Threats ==

Due to the accidental introduction of the Emerald Ash Borer, white ash trees have seen a significant decrease in population, and this has led to many adverse ecological effects. Widespread ash mortality severely alters forest habitats and dynamics. This causes loss of habitat and food for many [[organisms]], including 44 species of arthropods that feed exclusively on ash trees.

Additionally, loss of ash trees, and therefore an increase in sunlight on forest floors, may cause an increase in the spread of invasive species, such as honeysuckle, multiflora rose, and autumn olive.

[[File:ashborer.jpeg|thumb|right|Emerald Ash Borer]]

Widespread ash mortality also can alter [[soil]] pH, mineral concentrations, and soil moisture levels, affecting nutrient and water availability for nearby trees and other organisms living in the soil.



== References ==

[1] Ash Tree Update 2017 (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). . https://www.nps.gov/articles/ash-tree-update.htm.

[2] Estimating mortality rates of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) under the ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) epidemic - Coker - 2019 - PLANTS, PEOPLE, PLANET - Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). . https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.11.

[3] ETH - Forest Pathology and Dendrology. (n.d.). . https://web.archive.org/web/20121105034253/http://www.forestpathology.ethz.ch/research/Chalara_fraxinea/index_EN.

[4] Fraxinus americana - Plant Finder. (n.d.). . https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a867.

[5] Fraxinus americana (American Ash, White Ash) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. (n.d.). . https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fraxinus-americana/.

[6] Maine proposes Emerald Ash Borer quarantine rules. (n.d.). . https://www.wabi.tv/2021/03/17/maine-proposes-emerald-ash-borer-quarantine-rules/.

[7] White Ash. (n.d.). . https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/forestry/iowa_trees/trees/white_ash.html.

[8] White Ash (Fraxinus americana). (n.d.). . https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/white_ash.html.

[9] Are Europe’s ash trees finished? | New Scientist. (n.d.). . https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn22449-are-europes-ash-trees-finished/?ignored=irrelevant.