understory

The understory is the layer of vegetation found beneath the main canopy of a forest. It consists of smaller trees, shrubs, and young plants that grow in the shaded spaces below the tall, mature trees. This layer plays a crucial role in the forest ecosystem by providing habitat for many animals, aiding in nutrient cycling, and supporting new tree growth. The amount of light reaching the understory is limited, influencing the types of plants that can thrive there. Overall, the understory contributes to the biodiversity and health of the forest environment.