Plant functional groups refer to categories of plants that share similar characteristics and perform similar ecological roles in a particular ecosystem. These groups are based on traits such as growth form, life history strategy, and the way plants acquire and use resources. By categorizing plants into functional groups, scientists can better understand how ecosystems function and how they may respond to environmental changes. Some common plant functional groups include grasses, shrubs, trees, forbs (herbaceous flowering plants other than grasses), and climbers. Each group plays a different role in ecosystem processes such as nutrient cycling, carbon storage, and water uptake. For example, grasses are often associated with rapid growth and efficient resource uptake, while shrubs may provide important habitat for wildlife and contribute to soil stability. Studying plant functional groups can help ecologists predict how ecosystems may respond to disturbances such as climate change, land use change, or invasive species introductions. By understanding the traits and behaviors of different plant groups, researchers can make informed predictions about the resilience and stability of ecological communities.