Dendroecology is the study of the ecological interactions and processes of trees and forests using tree rings as a tool for analysis. Tree rings, or dendrochronology, provide a record of environmental conditions, such as temperature, precipitation, and disturbances, which can be used to reconstruct past climate patterns and ecosystem dynamics. Researchers in dendroecology often study how trees respond to climate change, natural disturbances, and human impacts on forest ecosystems. By analyzing tree rings, dendroecologists can gain insights into the long-term health and resilience of forests and the broader impacts of environmental change on tree growth and ecosystem function.