Effect of increased ambient temperature on the growth rate of young pine forests in the impact zone of a petroleum gas flare

Abstract

The effect of increased ambient temperature on the vertical, radial, and volume increments of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) trees has been studied in the zone of thermal impact from a burning petroleum gas flare. Regular age-dependent changes in the pattern of increment dependence on the distance from the flare and ambient temperature have been revealed. The mechanisms of these changes are explained. It is concluded that an increase in ambient temperature by 1.0-1.5°C has a favorable effect on the dynamics of Scots pine growth. © 2009 MAIK Nauka.