BIOGENIC VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

Relationship between Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (Vocs) and Bark Beetle Infestation in Lodge Pole Forest



Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (BVOC) and Bark Beetle Infestation in Lodge Pole Forest in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds and its relation with Bark Beetle Infestation in Lodge Pole Forest. Finally the research describes the overall relationship of Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (Vocs) and Bark Beetle Infestation in Lodge Pole Forest.

Table of Content

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION5

Purpose of the Research7

Problem Statement7

Aims and Objectives7

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW8

Contribution of Organic VOCS Into Greenhouse Gas Emission In The Atmosphere8

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY11

Research Technique: Qualitative or Quantitative?12

Primary Research13

Sample14

Research Instrument15

Data Collection15

Secondary Research16

Resources17

Nature of Data17

Ethical Consideration17

Reliability & Validity18

Data Analysis18

Conclusion19

Keywords19

References21

Relationship between Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (Vocs) and Bark Beetle Infestation in Lodge Pole Forest

INTRODUCTION

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic chemical compounds that have high enough vapor pressures under normal conditions to significantly vaporize and enter the atmosphere. VOCs are sometimes accidentally released into the environment, where they can damage soil and groundwater.

If we talk about Bark beetles, they do not only kill those trees, but when specifies are favorable their populations can develop quickly and cause broad damage. In recent years, their actions can be exceedingly disruptive to forest management exercises aimed at wood and fiber yield. (Guenther, 2001)

Lodgepole ecosystem

Lodgepole pine ecosystems are commonly found between 8,500 to 10,000 feet in the montage and subalpine life zones. Below 9000 feet they found on north-facing slopes; they are common on all exposures at higher elevations. They are found on a variety of sites having little correlation with a particular soil texture or moisture condition. The climate is generally cool and moist, with a short frost - free season.

Lodgepole pine forests usually have very dense trees of uniform size. The under story is sparse or absent. Foresters describe the lodgepole forests as a "fire-type" conifer. Forest fires open the forest, remove under story vegetation, produce bare mineral soil and facilitate the release of lodgepole seeds. Lodgepole cones must be exposed to high temperatures to allow cones to open up. Strong winds open cones too. Seedlings flourish when exposed to intense sunlight common to high altitude situations. Lodgepole ecosystems are success ional to Douglas fir or spruce-fir ecosystems, but aspen trees occasionally invade. Lodgepole ecosystems are perpetuated if they are constantly disturbed by wildfires perpetuating good sites for reproduction.

Environmentally, lodgepole forest prevent rapid runoff and erosion, holding soils to disturbed areas until more diverse climax ecosystems are in place. Humans have used lodgepole forest since prehistoric times. Native Americans constructed dwellings (lodges) with poles made from the straight timbers provided by lodgepole pine trees. Lodgepole pine has been used for mining timbers, rough construction, fences and rail road ties. Today they are harvested for light construction, finishing lumber, posts and poles. (Seufert, 2009)

Purpose of the Research

The purpose of this literature review is to know the relationship between biogenic volatile organic compounds (vocs) and bark beetle ...