Ecosystem function is the role that any process, species, population, or physical attribute plays in the interrelation between living or non-living components of ecosystems.  For example, some song birds play a role in pest control by significantly influencing budworm populations. The mychorrhizae fungi growing around tree roots increases their capacity to absorb water and nutrients. Large dead standing trees provide roosting or nesting sites for a variety of large birds. When old trees blow into streams and brooks they break up the water flow to create important aquatic habitat.. A healthy functioning forest depends on maintaining all it's component parts.

Ecological Function   /   Pest Control   /   Flying Foresters    /   Dead Wood