Certified Arborist Practice Exam

If there is no target then what doesn't exist?

1. Open wound, frass, fruiting bodies, discolored bark, basal mushroom

2. Reaction wood

3. Root collar excavation

4. Taper

The correct answer is: Taper

The concept that if there is no target, taper does not exist relates to the context of tree structure and growth. Taper refers to the gradual reduction in the diameter of a tree trunk as it grows taller, which is crucial for the tree's stability and strength. If there is no target, meaning no elevation or external loads to resist against, the development of taper is not as significant because the logical basis for having that structural feature becomes irrelevant. In the context of tree morphology, taper is typically a response to the forces acting on the tree. Trees develop taper to balance against wind, gravity, and other stressors. Without the presence of an external target or resistance, there is no need for the tree to strengthen itself in that particular way, leading to the conclusion that taper becomes a less relevant feature in this scenario. The other options presented, such as open wounds, frass, or reaction wood, relate to pathological or structural responses that occur regardless of a target being present, thus remaining significant in various contexts involving tree health and growth.