Treethane in the Caulosphere

Unexplored Mechanisms and Climate Implication

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In this article, Dr Raghab Ray, Fellow & Area Convenor, The Coastal Ecology & Marine Resources Centre, Goa, TERI, explores the emerging science of methane dynamics within the caulosphere (i.e., tree stem surface), highlighting how trees can function both as sources and sinks of methane in the global carbon cycle.

Drawing on recent research, he explains the role of microbial processes, stem emissions, and oxidation pathways, while also addressing measurement challenges and gaps in current climate models. The discussion underscores the need for deeper investigation, particularly in diverse ecosystems like India, to better integrate ‘treethane’ into climate science and policy frameworks.

While methane transport through soils and non-woody plants is well understood, why does methane emission from woody plants remain a significant gap in current climate models?