# California Redwoods Suffer Heat Stress

> Coast redwoods slow photosynthesis during extreme heat, risking carbon starvation and ecosystem collapse.
- Title: California Redwoods Suffer Heat Stress · WIRED | Shortify
- Summary: Coast redwoods slow photosynthesis during extreme heat, risking carbon starvation and ecosystem collapse. Coast redwoods dial down photosynthesis in…
- Keywords: coast redwood, photosynthesis, carbon starvation, heatwaves, mendocino county, fog decline, wandering salamander, marbled murrelet, uc davis, climate change, California, Redwoods
- Source: WIRED — https://wired.com/story/californias-tallest-and-most-iconic-trees-are-getting-heat-stroke
- Author: Neel Dhanesha
- Published: 2026-10-11T09:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: coast redwood, photosynthesis, carbon starvation, heatwaves, mendocino county, fog decline, wandering salamander, marbled murrelet, uc davis, climate change
## Redwood Ecosystems
Coast redwood forests create layered ecosystems with soil mats and ferns hundreds of feet above ground.
## Unique Tree Life Cycles
Wandering salamanders complete lifecycles on single trees, and marbled murrelets nest 150 feet above ground.
## Redwood Heat Vulnerability
Coast redwoods slow photosynthesis during extreme heat, risking carbon starvation and ecosystem collapse.
## Tree Physiology
Trees use stomata to take in carbon dioxide and release water; closed stomata conserve water but slow photosynthesis.
## UC Davis Study
UC Davis researchers found coast redwoods close stomata during heatwaves, reducing photosynthesis and carbon intake.
## Carbon Starvation Risk
Trees lose carbon storage capacity, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential ecosystem collapse.
## Fog Decline Threat
Coast redwoods rely on fog for hydration and cooling, but fog has declined 30 to 40 percent due to warming.
## Ecosystem Impact
Soil mats and ferns dry faster, threatening salamanders and seabirds that live high in redwoods.
## Short-Term Recovery
Trees recover photosynthesis after heatwaves but face long-term risks with hotter temperatures.
## Long-Term Threat
Coast redwoods may not grow as tall or store carbon, risking ecosystem collapse in 5-10 years.
## Key takeaway

Coast redwoods dial down photosynthesis in heatwaves, risking carbon starvation and ecosystem collapse.