An association. Often associations are referenced as eco-types. That's the short answer to a very complex question. Forests are classified primarily by the tree species that grow within them. read more
The name for a group of trees depends on the number of trees in the vicinity: small groups of trees are called groves or copses, while forests refer to larger groups of trees that cover landscapes and may include entire biospheres, such as rainforests and tiagas. read more
a forest of trees; a copse of trees A "forest" is a large group of trees. A "wood" is a slightly smaller group. A "copse" is fewer still. read more