Divide into three groups to carry out sampling. Discuss invertebrate results. Initiate student term projects. The forest overstory consists of the trees.
Trees are the tallest vegetation and therefore dominate the sunlight resources of a site.
Trees usually also have the most extensive root systems, allowing them to compete effectively for water and nutrients. As perennial plants, trees are long-lived and occupy sites for decades to centuries. Shrubs and tree seedlings and saplings are also usually considered part of the understory. Understory species often display a variety of life strategies. We should consider the species composition to get an idea of the diversity or species richness of the plant community.