American beech

The fruits of the American beech provide food for a variety of wildlife, which in turn helps disperse the tree’s seeds.

A frequent presence in late-successional forests, this long-lived tree can reach ages of 150 to 300 years. Beeches, however, are particularly vulnerable to a condition known as beech bark disease. Three pathogens are responsible for this complex ailment. The first, a cochineal, pierces the bark as it feeds, creating entry points for infection. The other two, opportunistic fungi (Neonectria spp.), invade these wounds and form cankers on the bark. Together, they weaken the tree, causing leaf wilt, dieback of fine branches, and trunk deformities that can ultimately lead to the tree’s death.

Not all associations are harmful, though—some are mutually beneficial. Beeches also form symbiotic relationship with soil-dwelling mycorrhizal fungi, particularly of the genus Boletus.