Arthropods and Nematodes: Functional Biodiversity in Forest Ecosystems

Abstract

Despite the great diversity of habitats grouped under a single name, forests are ecosystems characterized by the dominance of trees, which condition not only the epigeal environment but also life in the soil. Unlike other ecosystems such as grasslands or annual agricultural crops, forests are well characterized by precise spatial structures. In fact, we can identify three main layers in all forests: a canopy layer of tree crowns, including not only green photosynthesizing organs but also branches of various sizes; a layer formed by the tree trunks; a layer including bushes and grasses, which can sometimes be missing when not enough light filters through the canopy. To these layers must be added the litter and soil, which houses the root systems. Other characteristic features of forests, in addition to their structural complexity, are the longevity of the plants, the peculiar microclimates and the presence of particular habitats not found outside of these biocoenoses, such as fallen trunks and tree hollows. Even in the case of woods managed with relatively rapid cycles to produce firewood, forests are particularly good examples of ecosystems organized into superimposed layers that allow the maximum use of the solar energy.