Seasonal differences in internodal lenghts in Cecropia trees; a suggested method for measurement od past growth in height

Abstract

In Cecropia trunks in Costa Rica, rows of short shoots alternate with rows of long ones. This phenomenon is correlated with the sequence of dry and rainy months. By measuring the length of two consecutive rows (one long and one short), annual height growth can be determined. In a semi-deciduous forest, second-year growth of Cecropia peltata averaged 3.6 m, while in a bumid forest, this averaged 5.0 m. The maximum second-year growth rate for Cecropia obtusifolia averaged 7.6 m. This early-successional species is characterized by rapid growth in height but not in diameter.