What is the most common tree in the world?
The most common tree in the world is difficult to define unequivocally, because it depends on how common is defined. Predominance can refer to the tree’s distribution, biomass or number of individuals. This article looks at some of the most common trees from different perspectives.
Prevalence
If we look at distribution, one of the most common trees in the world is birch (Betula). Birches are widespread in the northern hemisphere, especially in Europe, Asia and North America. Birches have adapted to a wide range of climates and soils, which makes them very common.
Biomass
From a biomass perspective, tropical rainforests are significant. A huge number of different tree species grow in tropical rainforests, but one of the most common and the most significant in terms of biomass is the tree species of the Amazon rainforest, such as the kapok tree (Ceiba pentandra) and the mahogany tree (Swietenia macrophylla). These trees can grow very large and make up a significant part of the rainforest’s biomass.
Number of individuals
Based on the number of individuals, one of the most common trees in the world is red pine (Pinus sylvestris), also known as pine. Red pine is widespread, especially in Europe and Asia. It has adapted to a wide range of environments and is common in both natural and planted forests.
Summary
Determining the most common tree in the world depends on which criteria are used. Based on distribution, birch is one of the most common trees, based on biomass, tropical rainforest tree species are significant, and based on the number of individuals, red pine is very common. Each of these trees is important in its own way and represents different ecosystems and climatic conditions.
You can read more information from the following sources:
