[Campbell Biology P.823] A large portion of the Wawona Sequoia's trunk was excavated to crea... | Practice Question

A large portion of the Wawona Sequoia's trunk was excavated to create a tunnel. Based on the provided text, which of the following statements about this tree's survival is most accurate?

  • A: The tree survived because the vascular cambium was left intact, allowing continued water transport.
  • B: The tree could endure the excavation because the removed portion was mainly heartwood, which primarily provides structural support and protection, not active sap transport.
  • C: The tree's survival indicates that sapwood is not essential for water transport in very old, large trees.
  • D: The excavation likely enhanced gas exchange, contributing to the tree's longevity.

Explanation

Figure 35.23 and its accompanying text explain that the Wawona Sequoia's survival after being tunneled through demonstrates that 'Trees can endure the excision of large portions of their heartwood for decades.' Heartwood primarily provides structural support and is composed of dead cells that no longer transport sap.