They have not ears that hear

Single-leaf Pinyon Pine   (Photo by Toiyab) 

Although trees don’t have ears, they may nevertheless be affected by sounds.

Scientists have found that some of New Mexico’s pinyon pines and junipers grow far less abundantly in noisy places than in quiet ones.  Certain types of shrubs and flowers also seem affected by varying noise intensities.

Is there a direct connection between sounds and plants?  If so, how do those without ears detect decibel levels?  Perhaps such plants are highly influenced by partnering animals.  

Scrub jays, for example, are known to be noise averse.  Because they play a key role in spreading pinyon seeds, less pinyons would therefore grow in loud areas.   

Resources

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/noise-pollution-may-prevent-forest-growth-study/ar-BB1fM7PH?ocid=uxbndlbing

Copyright April 19, 2021 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved