Understanding the impact of extreme drought stress on forests by Prof. Brendan Choat
Severe droughts, intensified by climate change, are causing widespread tree mortality and disrupting ecosystem functions. Research has identified plant hydraulic failure, caused by gas emboli in xylem conduits, as a key mechanism of drought-induced tree death. Recent advances, including non-invasive imaging like micro-computed tomography, have improved understanding of species-specific physiological thresholds and tree responses to drought. Prof. Brendan Choat, a global leader in plant physiology and ecology, investigates drought impacts on trees and has published highly cited work in renowned journals. He holds fellowships from major institutions and is listed among the top 1% of Highly Cited Researchers by Clarivate.
