For the last several decades, researchers have been debating the value of old growth forests with respect to capturing and sequestering carbon.
For many years, old forests were thought to be carbon neutral at best. Research
"Plants within communities can be interconnected and exchange resources through a common hyphal network" - Dr. Suzanne Simard
Researchers have found that trees of the same species will share carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus with their community based on the needs of their peers. For example, trees growing in the shade receive carbon from their sun-lit parents.
Research has shown that plant productivity and resource utilization are significantly greater at higher plant diversity.
Old growth ecosystems are