Certified Forester Practice Exam

Biodiversity plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems because it enhances resilience and the range of services that ecosystems provide. A diverse array of species contributes to the overall health of the forest, allowing it to better withstand environmental stresses such as climate change, pests, and diseases. When a forest is rich in species variety, it creates a more stable and self-sustaining environment where interdependent relationships between species can thrive. This interconnectedness offers numerous ecosystem services, including carbon storage, water filtration, soil stabilization, and habitat provision for various organisms.

In terms of resilience, diverse ecosystems can adapt more effectively to changes and disruptions. For instance, if one species is negatively impacted by a disease or changing climate conditions, others may fill the ecological roles that help maintain the integrity of the ecosystem. Therefore, higher biodiversity is closely linked to greater stability, productivity, and functionality of the forest ecosystem, making it critical for long-term sustainability and resource management.