Why is the edge of a forest associated with high biodiversity?

The edge of a forest is associated with high biodiversity primarily because sunlight can reach edges and understory areas. This increase in light promotes a greater variety of plants that can thrive in these environments, allowing for diverse habitats that support various animal species. The interplay of sunlight between the forest and adjacent ecosystems creates a rich environment where herbaceous plants, shrubs, and small trees can flourish, thereby attracting a wide range of animals.

Additionally, the edge often serves as a transitional zone between different ecosystems, such as forests and meadows or agricultural land. This transition can lead to increased interactions among species from different habitats, further contributing to the overall biodiversity.

While the availability of water and human activity can impact biodiversity, they do not explain the unique advantages provided by habitat edges in terms of light availability and ecological interactions as effectively as the role of sunlight does. Ultimately, this synergy of light, plant diversity, and habitat connectivity makes the forest edge a hotspot for biodiversity.