Which Fagales trees dominate mixed deciduous forests in North America and Europe?
In the mixed deciduous forests of North America and Europe, the order Fagales plays a central role in forest composition. These regions are dominated by several key genera within the order, specifically:
These trees are characteristic of the broad-leaved forests found in mid-latitudinal areas of the Northern Hemisphere. While the Betulaceae family (which includes birches and alders) also occupies these latitudes, they are particularly prevalent in more northern regions, often reaching the northernmost limits of tree growth. In the eastern North American deciduous forest specifically, the dominance of these species can vary by region, with beeches and maples often characterizing northern areas, while oaks and hickories are more prominent along southern extensions.12