answersLogoWhite

0

The altitude of timberline varies around the globe. The two main factors are latitude and global climate patterns. Near the poles, the timberline is at sea level. The generally colder temperatures, extremely harsh winters, and lack of overhead sunlight prevent trees from growing in these regions.

As you near the equator, the altitude of timberline increases. The highest known timberline is around 16000 feet. Generally warmer climates, less extreme seasonal shifts, and more overhead sunlight allow trees to survive at higher altitudes in the tropics.

Even at the same latitude, timberlines may vary. As a general rule, the timberline on the western slope of a mountain range in the United States will be higher than the timberline on the eastern slope due to increased precipitation as warm moist air is pushed up by the mountains. The drier climates found on the eastern slopes of the same ranges are not as conducive to tree growth.

Long term climate shift will gradually move timberlines, but this takes a very, very long time. Seeds from trees will often lay dormant for years before even sprouting, and take many more years to grow into an appreciable "tree," especially at extremely high altitudes. A warm or cold shift for a few decades will not have a noticeable impact, but over the course of several centuries, the line may shift a little.

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What a tree line?

A tree line is the edge of the habitat at which trees are capable of growing. A tree line is different from a timberline. A timberline, often called a forest line, is the line where trees form a forest with a closed canopy.


Can a timberline be found in Nebraska?

Can a timberline be found in nebraska?


Where is a timberline located?

A timberline is an imaginary line where trees do not grow.


When was Timberline Twister created?

Timberline Twister was created in 1983.


When was Timberline Lodge created?

Timberline Lodge was created in 1935.


When was Timberline Wren created?

Timberline Wren was created in 1902.


How do you use timberline in a sentence?

I just used timberline in a sentence


What is the meaing of timberline?

The timberline is the highest elevation on a mountain that trees can grow.


What does timberline mean?

The timberline usually refers to the point at which trees are no longer found on mountainsides. In general, there is very little vegetation above the timberline.


What is a Treeline or timberline?

Trees grow at a certain temperature and have trouble above a certain level. That is called the timberline. It turns to grass or gravel at the timberline.


The timberline of the rocky mountains demonstrates the impact of?

The timberline of the Rocky Mountains illustrates the impact of altitude on vegetation, as it marks the elevation above which trees cannot grow due to harsh environmental conditions. Factors such as lower temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, and increased wind exposure limit tree growth. This ecological boundary also reflects the influence of climate change, which can shift the timberline upward as warmer temperatures affect plant survival and distribution. Overall, the timberline serves as a clear indicator of the interplay between elevation, climate, and ecosystem dynamics.


When was Timberline Secondary School created?

Timberline Secondary School was created in 1997.