10/18/2013

Vines Choking Out Trees in the Tropics

16:51 minutes

It’s a rivalry as old as forests themselves: the ancient battle between trees and their competitors, the vines. But now, ecologists say, the vines are winning. Bill Laurance, of Australia’s James Cook University, says increased forest fragmentation and a boost in carbon dioxide may be contributing to the vines’ domination.

Segment Guests

Bill Laurance

Bill Laurance is distinguished research professor at the Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science at James Cook University in Cairns, Australia.

Meet the Producer

About Christopher Intagliata

Christopher Intagliata was Science Friday’s senior producer. He once served as a prop in an optical illusion and speaks passable Ira Flatowese.