Forest Ecosystems

Front

What is an old-growth forest?

Back

An old-growth forest is a forest that has attained great age without significant disturbance, allowing for a complex ecosystem with high biodiversity.

Front

What type of forest has the MOST biodiversity?

Back

Old-growth forests have the most biodiversity compared to tree plantations and second-growth forests.

Front

What are indirect drivers of deforestation?

Back

Indirect drivers of deforestation are social, economic, political, cultural, and technological processes that lead to forest loss.

Front

What is selective cutting?

Back

Selective cutting is a tree harvesting method where only certain trees are cut down, leaving others to grow and maintain the ecosystem.

Front

What is seedtree/shelterwood cutting?

Back

Seedtree/shelterwood cutting is a method where a few mature trees are left standing to reseed the area and provide shelter for new seedlings.

Front

What can individuals do to combat deforestation?

Back

Individuals can plant trees in their communities and reduce the use of products that come from trees.

Front

What is a crown fire?

Back

A crown fire is a type of wildfire that burns the entire tree, including the crown, and can spread rapidly through the forest canopy.

Front

What is a surface fire?

Back

A surface fire is a fire that burns along the forest floor, consuming leaf litter and small plants but not usually affecting the canopy.

Front

What is clearcutting?

Back

Clearcutting is a logging practice where all trees in a specific area are cut down, leading to significant ecological changes.

Front

What are the effects of deforestation on biodiversity?

Back

Deforestation leads to habitat loss, which can result in decreased biodiversity and extinction of species.