Final answer:
Bark edging is the presence or absence of bark along the edge of a piece of lumber. Bark serves a protective function for tree trunks and branches, preventing damage and water loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of bark or the lack of wood fiber along the edge on a piece of lumber is called the bark edging. Bark edging is a common characteristic of tree trunks and branches, and it serves multiple functions.
Firstly, bark acts as a protective layer, shielding the inner wood tissues from mechanical damage, pathogens, and extreme temperatures. Secondly, the cork layer in the bark helps reduce water loss from the tree, preventing desiccation. Lastly, the appearance and texture of the bark can vary between tree species and can even change as a tree grows older.