Keloihin

Keloihin is a Finnish term that refers to dead, standing trees, typically pines and spruces, that have been dead for a long time and are in a state of slow decay. These trees are a natural part of the boreal forest ecosystem and are often found in old-growth forests. Keloihin are characterized by their silvery-white or gray appearance, smooth bark, and often hollowed-out interiors. The process of becoming kelo involves the tree dying naturally, usually from age, disease, or environmental factors, and then being preserved by the dry, cool conditions of the northern climate.

These dead trees play an important ecological role. They provide habitat for various insects, birds, and fungi that are adapted to decaying wood. Many species of woodpeckers, for example, rely on keloihin for nesting cavities and foraging for insects. The slow decomposition of kelo provides nutrients back to the soil, contributing to the forest's nutrient cycle. In some areas, keloihin are also considered aesthetically significant and contribute to the unique landscape of northern forests. Their presence can be an indicator of a healthy, undisturbed forest environment.