ISA Tree Biology and Physiology Questions and Answers

Question 1

An arborist observes a mature oak tree with a large, older wound on its trunk.
New growth has formed around the edges of the wound, but the exposed wood in the center appears dark and decayed.
This response, where the tree forms barriers to resist the spread of decay, is best described by which of the following concepts?

Accepted Answer

CODIT (Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees)

Answer

Photosynthesis

Answer

Transpiration

Answer

Apical dominance

Question 2

Which of the following correctly pairs a tree tissue with its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Cambium - a layer of cells responsible for secondary growth (thickening).

Answer

Phloem - transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves.

Answer

Xylem - transports sugars from the leaves to the rest of the tree.

Answer

Pith - primary site of photosynthesis.

Question 3

A client is concerned about a newly planted maple tree that is losing water vapor from its leaves, especially on hot, sunny days. The arborist explains this is a normal process. What is the correct term for this process of water vapor loss through the stomata of leaves?

Accepted Answer

Transpiration

Answer

Respiration

Answer

Photosynthesis

Answer

Guttation

Question 4

The primary growth of a tree, which results in the elongation of its shoots and roots, originates from which type of meristematic tissue?

Accepted Answer

Apical Meristems

Answer

Vascular Cambium

Answer

Cork Cambium

Answer

Lateral Meristems

Question 5

Which of these processes is essential for converting stored sugars into usable energy for a tree's growth, maintenance, and defense, and requires oxygen to occur?

Accepted Answer

Respiration

Answer

Photosynthesis

Answer

Translocation

Answer

Absorption

Question 6

An arborist is evaluating the root system of a large tree in a confined urban space. Which type of roots are primarily responsible for absorbing water and mineral elements from the soil?

Accepted Answer

Absorbing roots (nonwoody)

Answer

Tap roots

Answer

Woody structural roots

Answer

Sinker roots