Trees are truly amazing Woody species underpin vital terrestrial ecosystems, present a complex array of evolutionary novelties, and provide essential benefits and commodities. Trees play a key role in the major biogeochemical cycles, including water, oxygen, and nitrogen. Notably, forests are second only to oceans in the biological sequestration of carbon, and forests are recognized for their vital role in regulating the concentration of the greenhouse gas, CO₂. At the same time, forests are threatened by land clearing for development and agriculture, introduced pathogens and...