Forests are distinguished by their species of trees and plants, density, and soil type. Animal life is predominant on or just below the forest floor, while birds and other species inhabit the shrub and canopy layers. By some, forests are considered to be the world s most complex ecosystems, supporting more species than all others combined. Forests produce tremendous amounts of energy, nutrients, and oxygen, and affect regional weather and global climates. Forests benefit humans and wildlife species, providing wood fiber, outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat, and regulation of hydrologic functions.
Forests are important elements of natural and human-dominated landscapes.
At one time, the predominant tree species in the mid-Atlantic deciduous forest was the American chestnut. The fungus survives in stumps and saplings affecting any trees approaching maturity. The forests in the mid-Atlantic region today are much different than their predecessors. Forest cover reflects the health of the MAIA landscape in a variety of ways. One indicator of forest health that is commonly examined is the extent of the fragmentation of forest cover.