Tree Rings on the Equator?

Question

If tree rings are formed by differences in climate throughout the year, how do trees in a much more stable climate (such as right on the equator) grow their rings if there isn’t a set “wet” or “dry” season?

In: 2

Answer 1

Tree rings are formed every year regardless of climate. The thickness of the ring can tell us a lot about the environment through. Years where the ring is thinner we can assume it was dryer and vice versa. We can go back in time by working our way from the outside in and see evidence about the environment that the tree was growing in throughout its life.