Treefall gap

<p>A treefall gap is a distinguishable hole in the <a href="/facts/Canopy_(biology)/P1C0uxKl">canopy</a> of a <a href="/facts/Forest/RnMtb31v">forest</a> with vertical sides extending through all levels down to an average height of 2 m (6.6 ft) above ground. These holes occur as result of a fallen tree or large limb. The ecologist who developed this definition used two meters because he believed that "a regrowth height of 2 m was sufficient" for a gap to be considered closed, but not all scientists agree. For example, Runkle believed that regrowth should be 10–20 m (33–66 ft) above the ground. Alternatively, a treefall gap is "the smallest gap [that must] be readily distinguishable amid the complexity of forest structure."
</p><p>There is no upper limit in gap size. However, it must be caused by a tree or a large limb. For example, a field would not be considered a treefall gap. Tree falls are commonly caused by old age, <a href="/facts/Natural_hazard/hxEjceDk">natural hazards</a>, or <a href="/facts/Parasitic_plant/70UAImum">parasitic plants</a> (or certain <a href="/facts/Epiphyte/n0oUN0Yd">epiphytes</a>).
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Treefall gap open-in-new

Treefall gap