What is the genus Alnus and how many species does it contain?
The genus Alnus contains about 35 species of monoecious trees and shrubs. These plants grow throughout the north temperate zone with some reaching Central America.
Questions about Alder
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did the oldest fossil pollen identified as Alnus appear in Northern Bohemia?
Northern Bohemia yielded the oldest fossil pollen identified as Alnus around 58 million years ago. This late Paleocene deposit marks the earliest known presence of the genus.
How do alders form a mutualistic relationship with Frankia alni bacteria inside root nodules?
Alders form a mutualistic relationship with Frankia alni bacteria inside root nodules that can reach the size of a human fist. The bacterium absorbs nitrogen from the air and makes it available to the tree while the alder provides sugars produced through photosynthesis to feed the bacteria.
Why are most pilings forming the foundation of Venice made from alder trees?
Most pilings forming the foundation of Venice were made from alder trees because this material has been used for millennia as a base for piers and wharves. Alder is notably stable when immersed underwater without decaying quickly even after centuries of submersion.
What year did Fender Musical Instruments Corporation begin building electric guitars with alder bodies?
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation began building electric guitars with alder bodies since the 1950s. Manufacturers appreciate its tone described as tight and evenly balanced compared to mahogany.