How do trees communicate with each other?

Trees communicate with each other primarily through an underground network often referred to as the “wood wide web,” which involves their root systems and symbiotic fungi called mycorrhizae. Mycorrhizal fungi form mutualistic relationships with tree roots by attaching to them and extending far into the soil. This fungal network connects different trees, even of different species, allowing them to exchange water, nutrients, and chemical signals. Through this network, trees can share information about environmental conditions. For example, if one tree is under attack by pests or disease, it can release chemical signals through the mycorrhizal network that alert neighboring trees to ramp up their own chemical defenses. Similarly, healthy trees can help support weaker or younger trees by transferring carbon or nutrients through the network, aiding their growth and survival. This underground communication system shows how trees are part of a larger, interconnected community rather than isolated individuals. It helps forests be more resilient and adaptive to challenges like drought, disease, or insect outbreaks. While this communication is quite different from how animals communicate, it highlights the complexity and sophistication of plant ecosystems.