Interactions
The Norway Spruce has a variety of different interactions with a wide variety of different organisms. One mutualistic relationship it has is with mycorrhizae, a microscopic fungus that interacts with the roots of the tree. The fungus helps to provide nutrients for the tree, while the tree provides glucose for the fungus. The tree also has commensalistic relationships with a variety of critters, providing shelter for nesting animals like squirrels or birds. When thinking about where this organism would appear on a food web, it would be classified as being a primary producer because it is a photosynthetic plant.
The Norway Spruce also endures several parasitic relationships with a variety of animals. The worst problem is that of mite infestation, which cause a yellowing at the base of the oldest needles on infested branches. Spruce budworm is another problem, which feed on developing buds and young needles. The Spruce needle-miner makes a small hole in the base of the spruce’s needles, then mines out the center, resulting in groups of dead, brown needles that are webbed together. Also, one disease it may suffer from is cytospora canker, which attacks lower branches and may cause progressive death along more branches if it is not pruned and maintained.
The number one use humans have for the Norway Spruce is to use it as a wind break when used in landscaping. It is a tree that grows to be up to 100 feet tall with a 40 foot spread, so it can provide lots of shade and wind break. It can also be used as a type of lumber, but is often not a first choice.
Photo By Neil Madisen