You will ...

• note that all definitions of "treeline" are conventions and inherently unprecise
• acknowledge the bioclimatic differences between trees and non-trees
• acquire a global picture of the treeline phenomenon

You will learn ...

• to differentiate between local peculiarities and common patterns
• to distinguish between conventions and facts
• to follow a logical chain of arguments despite uncertainty in details

You will understand ...

• why there are high elevation treelines
• that not every treeline is a climatic treeline
• why structure (life form) can overrule primary metabolism

You will be able to ...

• distinguish between climatic and other reasons for forest boundaries
• interpret recent trends in tree growth near the treeline
• judge the weight of various potential determinants of treelines