This textbook provides an overview of the complex field of ecology, which is divided into numerous specialized disciplines. The focus is on the ecology of tree species and forests in Central Europe, a distinct vegetational geographic area that stretches from the Baltic Sea to the Southern Alps and from Eastern France to Poland and Slovakia. The discussions on the structures and processes in natural forest formations are supplemented by research findings on the ecological impacts of forestry. Separate chapters also address global issues such as biodiversity, climate change, and forest damage. Biology, geography, landscape planning, landscape ecology, and agricultural and forestry sciences are degree programs where ecological topics have always played an important role in the curriculum. New programs for resource management have also been introduced.