Question

Define stratification with an example.

Answer 1

Stratification is defined as the vertical layering of a particular habitat. The various layers ( singular-stratum, plural-strata ) are classified mainly according to the different heights to which their plants grow. It is mainly studied by an Ecologist. Let us take the example of a typical forest. The different strata are as follows :

1- The strata that comprises of tall trees that are over 50 feet in height , which make so called "Canopy" of that habitat.

2-Below the Canopy , the strata of trees that are about 20 feet in height that are usually shade tolerant trees.

3-The transgressive strata which has four feet tall plants and are shade tolerant too. They actually form a high density strata.

4-The seedling strata which has plants of soil level upto lower limit of transgressive strata.They are mainly comprised of hardwood species.

5-The lowermost strata is of herbaceous plants which are non-woody plants.