The Giant Conifers of the Pacific Coast of North America
In The Giant Conifers of the Pacific Coast of North America, narrator Sir David Attenborough explains how time and sunlight have resulted in some of the largest and oldest living things on Earth. Giant conifers can absorb moisture from fog to survive dry times and thrive here. This video is excerpted from BBC's Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
Lesson Express
Q: How are coniferous trees adapted to the Pacific coast?
A: If there is a shortage of rain, the needles can extract moisture from the fog that rolls in from the ocean.
Q: How does conifer growth on the Pacific coast of North America compare with that in the Arctic taiga?
A: Those in the Pacific grow at ten times the rate of those in the Arctic, thanks to six months of powerful sunshine versus one.
Q: What type of “living matter” do you think is contained within the trees?
A: Student responses will vary. Students may suggest insects or bacteria.
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