Branches survive intense wind: live oak

1 of 2 Live oaks at Wormsloe / slp1 / License

Live oaks survive strong winds because of high wood strength and a low canopy that branches out in multiple subdivisions without a main axis.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Wind

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Develop designs on skyscrapers, towers, and other tall man-made objects that help channel and deflect wind.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"The resistance of live oak has been related to the low deliquescent canopy and high wood strength and resilience (Touliatos & Roth 1971). The crowns of the larger live oaks were level with or below crowns of associated laurel and water oaks." (Gresham 1991:425)

About the inspiring organism

Quercus virginiana
Quercus virginiana Mill.
[Live oak, Southern live oak]

IUCN Red List Status: Unknown

Some organism data provided by: World Checklist of Selected Plant Families
Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Develop designs on skyscrapers, towers, and other tall man-made objects that help channel and deflect wind.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Construction

References

Gresham, C. A.; Williams, T. M.; Lipscomb, D. J. 1991. Hurricane Hugo Wind Damage to Southeastern US Coastal Forest Tree Species. Biotropica. 23(4): 420-426.

Branches survive intense wind: live oak

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