Tree mortality refers to the death of trees within a forest or ecosystem. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including disease, insect infestation, drought, flooding, fire, and human activities such as logging and land clearing. Understanding tree mortality is important for ecosystem management, as it can have significant impacts on biodiversity, carbon storage, and ecosystem functions. Researchers study tree mortality to better understand the causes and patterns of tree death, develop strategies for managing and mitigating tree mortality, and inform conservation efforts to protect forests and their biodiversity.