Area scientists comment
on FONTT’s native tree guide
Welcome to the Discussion
Area scientists with a range of professional backgrounds comment on FONTT’s native tree guide, particularly the indicator for gauging the impact of a tree species on ecosystem biodiversity.
What is the biodiversity indicator used in the Takoma Park Native Tree Selection Guide?
Doug Tallamy Kicks Off the Discussion
Professor Tallamy explains the science behind the biodiversity indicator presented in the native tree selection guide.
Travis Gallo Brings the Perspective
of an Urban Ecologist
Dr. Travis Gallo brings the perspective of an urban wildlife biologist to the discussion of whether the FONTT native tree guide uses a valid indicator of the contribution that a tree species makes to supporting ecosystem health.
Sam Droege Speaks for the Bees
Sam Droege points out that bees also contribute to maintaining ecosystem health. That makes it tricky to decide which plants deserve superstar status using an indicator that is based on the number of Lepidoptera hosted.
John Erwin discusses the many
indicators for urban trees
Dr. Erwin sees a benefit in providing indicators, including the biodiversity indicator in the FONTT native tree selection guide. Other indicators of interest might be for shade tolerance, heat tolerance, and susceptibility of being blown down.
Paula Shrewsbury discusses
caterpillars as pests
Dr. Shrewsbury addresses concerns about caterpillars as pests. She goes on to explain the many benefits that trees provide to people, other than sustaining biodiversity.
Compiled list of references cited by the various panelists in their Q&As.
Resources for the Discussion
Background on the purpose of the discussion panel
An explanation of the biodiversity indicator used in the guide
How “native tree” is defined in the guide.
The Takoma Park Native Tree Selection Guide explains the ecological importance of native trees and helps people to select a native tree for their property.
Friends of Native Trees in Takoma 