Trees in temperate forests communicate stress through the soil, sending chemical signals via shared root and fungal networks. When one tree is attacked by insects, neighboring trees often increase their production of defensive compounds before the attack reaches them. The phenomenon does not imply tree intentions; it is, biologists emphasize, a chemistry-and-network effect, but its consequences for forest resilience are real.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
- A
Insects do not affect trees.
- B
Trees deliberately help each other.
- Ccheck_circle
Trees engage in chemical signaling that benefits forest resilience without implying intention.
- D
Forests are not networked.
Explanation
The passage carefully separates real signaling from intentional language — B. A, C, and D contradict the text.