The mix of biotic components helps define biodiversity. In the case of forests, the kinds of vegetation present determines the kinds of mammals, birds, amphibians, etc. which can survive. Michigan's statewide forest inventory identified over 75 different tree species and approximately 90 species of woody shrubs. The forest also contains other living components which are part of its overall health. The relationship of these many components to one another creates different but important habitat.
Examples are the edge between various forests or land uses and the presence of aquatic systems.
Michigan's forests continue to mature and regenerate. This process alters the forest's structure continually. One measure of this process is reflected in the statewide forest inventory. The trend towards maturity in Michigan's forests provides a variety of management opportunities, such as managing for old growth attributes, harvesting mature trees, improving structural diversity, or regenerating young forests. Forests dominate Michigan's landscape.