Also, An Understanding of Gradations is Necessary...

Figure 10
Figure 10
Microscopic, wood-inhabiting organisms and the long-lived, gigantic trees interact intimately in a long and intense struggle for survival. This struggle starts with a wound and can end with total decomposition of the wood. Many biotic and abiotic factors are involved in the decay processes. It is difficult to determine where one event or process starts and another ends.

The events and processes overlap and mingle like the colors in a large spectrum or rainbow. Where does one color stop and another start? The natural process of decay is even more complicated and it might be more accurately likened to a multidimensional spectrum that is constantly changing over time. When we get too close to some processes, they are changed because of our methods of study and measurements. This is why we must consider the PATTERNS of events rather than specific events.(fig. 10)

Then, what CAN and CANNOT be done about the decay processes? The more we learn about the processes the better are our chances for REGULATING them.

WE CANNOT:

  • Stop the processes. We cannot stop our ultimate death either, but that does not mean we cannot live a long,
       healthy, and productive life.

    WE CAN:

  • Prevent decay-temporarily.
  • Decrease the rate.
  • Increase the rate.
  • Detect it.
  • Predict its rate.
  • Predict its ultimate configuration.
  • Minimize its volume.

    How effectively we can do the above depends on how well we understand the decay processes. The decay processes are not so overwhelming that they defy regulation.

    SURVIVAL of any organism depends on its ability to compete effectively with other organisms for space and an energy source. To survive, organisms must live long enough to complete a life cycle. They must compete for food and space under constantly changing environmental conditions. They must respond rapidly and effectively to injury caused by abiotic and biotic factors. The response must be such that it enables the organisms to continue to survive.

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