Gum in a tree is a natural substance produced by the plant, primarily composed of complex sugars.
Understanding Tree Gum
Often seen as a sticky, sometimes hardened substance on the bark of a tree, tree gum is essentially a type of natural gum.
According to the provided information, natural gums are:
- Long chains of sugars (polysaccharides) found within the plant material.
- Either water-soluble or capable of absorbing water.
- Form gels when mixed with water.
In simpler terms, gum is a carbohydrate-rich substance that trees excrete. It's a polysaccharide, which means it's made up of many sugar units linked together.
Why Do Trees Produce Gum?
Trees typically produce gum as a defense mechanism or in response to stress.
- Wound Healing: When a tree is injured (by insects, animals, or mechanical damage), it can exude gum to seal the wound. This sticky barrier helps prevent the entry of pathogens like fungi and bacteria, much like a scab on skin.
- Protection: The sticky nature can also deter insects from feeding on the bark or bore into the wood.
- Stress Response: Drought, disease, or nutrient deficiencies can sometimes trigger excessive gum production.
The gum forms a viscous liquid that hardens upon exposure to air, creating a protective seal over the affected area.
Key Characteristics of Tree Gum
Based on its nature as a natural gum, its key characteristics include:
- Chemical Composition: Primarily polysaccharides (long chains of sugars).
- Physical Properties: Can be viscous, sticky, and capable of hardening.
- Interaction with Water: Water-soluble or water-absorbent, forming gels when hydrated.
- Function in the Tree: Protects against injury, infection, and pests.
While not all tree exudates are technically "gums" (some might be resins, which are chemically different), the substance commonly referred to as gum in a tree fits the description of a natural gum – a polysaccharide-based substance involved in the tree's protective responses.
