Other rots, fungi, and root decay affect this species. A preferred host of gypsy moth. Death occurs when nearly complete defoliation by gypsy moth is followed by a fungal infection by Armillaria spp . Commonly occurs in areas that frequently burn, such as large upland areas distant from water and upwind of natural fire breaks such as lakes. Removal of the overstory and heating of the soil stimulate root sprouting.
Fire also creates a suitable seedbed and reduces competition.
Almost always retains or extends its range following fire. The extensive root system allows it to dominate the postfire forest, even if aspen was only a minor component of the prefire stand. Aspen roots persist an undetermined length of time in the absence of canopy aspen, making it possible to regenerate in a stand where aspen was not even represented in the prefire overstory. Aspen-dominated forests do not readily burn, especially when young and healthy. An understory of conifers increases the flammability of aspen stands.