FOREST ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Forests are natural ecosystems that play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth’s ecological stability. They are not merely collections of trees and vegetation, but also habitats for various living organisms. Forests regulate the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, prevent soil erosion, participate in the water cycle, and support biodiversity. Therefore, the protection and sustainable management of forests are considered global priorities.

A forest ecosystem is a natural system dominated by trees, where various plant and animal species coexist and interact closely with soil, water, microorganisms, and the atmosphere. These ecosystems are essential for preserving the ecological balance of the Earth. Forests are not just
groups of trees, but dynamic systems characterized by energy flow and nutrient cycling. The forest ecosystem is formed through the interaction between biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components.