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The forest, a laboratory in danger

From tropical forests to Mediterranean ecosystems, discover the fascinating missions of the scientists who use forests as outdoor laboratories.

O3HP experimental platform
O3HP experimental platform

© Thibaut VERGOZ/IMBE/CNRS Images

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Understanding climate change, fighting deforestation or better still preserving the biodiversity of these ecosystems: scientists have plenty to do in forests. But forests are also one of the terrestrial biosphere’s natural carbon sinks. Because of their ability to absorb atmospheric CO2, they play a major role in regulating carbon and the climate.

Journey with us to the heart of our planet’s lungs…

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À l’Observatoire du chêne pubescent (O3HP), au nord de Marseille, les chercheurs utilisent des bâches déroulantes qu’ils peuvent ouvrir ou fermer au-dessus de la canopée.
Climate: what Forests Teach Us
Ces espèces, tel ce mâle de Manakin casse-noisette (Manacusmanacus), réagissent différemment au phénomène de fragmentation de la forêt selon le type d’environnement qu’elles préfèrent.
Are Fragmented Forests a Threat to Birdlife?
Cette activité de cueillette est traditionnellement pratiquée en famille par les femmes et les enfants. Les hommes, quant à eux, assurent la sécurité du camp.
A Mango Harvest with the Baka Pygmies
Cyril Frésillon/ESE/Icos/CNRS Photothèque
Keeping an eye on the forest

CNRS Images,

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