Trees
Canotia Holacantha On Isla Tiburón, Gulf Of California, Mexico
Canotia holacantha Torrey is reported from the Gulf of California, Mexico on Isla Tiburón. This population is isolated from its closest conspecifics in northern Sonora by 230 km and is best explained as a Pleistocene relict. Previous reports of this species on Tiburón and differences between other “crucifixion thorns” are explained.
Thornscrub before and after heavy February 2011 frost
These photos were taken by Aaron Flesch before and after the February 2 and 3, 2011 frost. This unusually severe frost event was the worst freeze seen across Sonora and Arizona at least 50 years. Many species and vegetation communities were heavily effected.
These photos were taken in July 2009 (top) and July 2012 (bottom). One can see dramatic changes in vegetative cover in the foreground, as well as on hill-slopes in the background.
Dynamics of the Landscape Patches in the Old Growth Forest on Mt. Graham (Pinaleno Mountains), Arizona
The old growth forest on Mt. Graham (Pinaleno Mountains) of eastern Arizona is comprised of forest patches rather than being homogeneous in composition. These patches reflect the heterogeneity of disturbances that occur on the mountain. The two primary disturbances have been fire and wind, although clearing for road construction and recently for an astronomical observatory also are important. The forest patches represent different stages in forest succession following disturbance. Patches can be described as open, forest edge, and mature and old growth forest.
Vegetation and Wildlife Survey of Devil’s Canyon, Tonto National Forest (July 2007)
Devil’s Canyon is located in Pinal County Arizona a few miles east of Superior in the Globe Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. The area is extremely rugged with deep canyons, rocky ridges, and uplands dominated by large boulders and towering spires. Pyroclastic welded tuft is the most common substrate throughout the area and creates beautiful cliffs, arches, and towers.
Vegetation and Wildlife Survey of Devil’s Canyon (Gaan Canyon), Tonto National Forest (May 2009)
Devil’s Canyon is located in Pinal County Arizona approximately 6 km east of the town of Superior in the Globe Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest. The area is generally rugged with deep canyons and is defined by its complex rock formations. Portions of Devil’s Canyon have stretches of large and dense riparian growth that support a high diversity of breeding birds and other wildlife.