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Vertical
Structure
Vegetation can be classified by how tall it grows. Grasses
and forbs generally grow close to the ground and form the ground
layer. The next higher level is usually composed of shrubs
and mid-story vegetation and is called the shrub layer. The
highest level is characterized by trees and is appropriately
named the tree canopy layer.
How different layers of vegetation are arranged in relation to each other is
important to many wildlife species. For instance, some species may require
an herbaceous or ground layer for food, but need tree canopy for cover.
The different layers, or vertical structure, of vegetation provide wildlife habitat. Often,
each layer represents a different stage of succession. |
