What is a critical outcome of having high tree species diversity in a forest?

Having high tree species diversity in a forest contributes to reduced habitat for pests because a diverse range of tree species can disrupt the life cycles and populations of specific pests. Pests often thrive in monocultures or areas dominated by a single tree species because such environments provide them with abundant food sources and suitable conditions for their development. In a diverse forest, however, the variety of tree species can make it more difficult for pests to find suitable hosts, as they may have specific preferences for certain species. This complex ecosystem interaction can also promote the presence of natural predators or parasitoids that can help control pest populations, further contributing to ecosystem stability. Therefore, increasing tree species diversity serves as a vital strategy in pest management and overall forest health.