treespecies

Tree species are fundamental units of forest biodiversity. A tree species is a population of trees that share a set of common inherited characteristics and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring in natural conditions. Species are named in scientific binomials; for example Quercus robur and Pinus sylvestris. Common names vary by region.

Trees show extensive variation in form, size, leaves, bark, and wood, reflecting adaptation to habitats such as tropical rainforests, temperate forests, boreal zones, and urban environments. They can be deciduous or evergreen, with growth forms including towering emergent trees, broad canopies, or shrub-like forms. Reproduction typically occurs via seeds produced in flowers or cones; many species rely on wind or animal pollination and seed dispersal.

Ecologically, trees influence climate and soil, provide habitat and food for countless organisms, stabilize soils, and store significant amounts of carbon. They are long-lived, with lifespans ranging from decades to millennia, and many species form associations with mycorrhizal fungi.

Humans use tree species for timber, fruit, nuts, medicines, fiber, shade, and ornament. Conservation concerns include deforestation, habitat fragmentation, climate change, invasive pests, and overexploitation. Accurate species identification and taxonomy support conservation planning, sustainable forestry, and restoration.

Examples include: Quercus robur (pedunculate oak), Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine), Betula pendula (silver birch), Acer saccharum (sugar maple), Eucalyptus regnans (mountain ash), Shorea robusta (sal), Swietenia macrophylla (royal mahogany), and Fagus sylvatica (European beech).