Tropical lowland forest canopy in Barro Colorado Island in Panama (IMAGE)

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

Tropical lowland forest canopy in Barro Colorado Island in Panama

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Nitrogen-fixing trees can fertilize the soil with the help of partner bacteria. It has remained a puzzle why these trees do not become more prevalent in nitrogen-poor tropical forests. This study suggests that herbivory by animals may be the answer.

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Sarah Batterman

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