Question

How is 'stratification' represented in a forest ecosystem?

Answer 1

Stratification is the way in which different species in an ecosystem are placed or arranged in a habitat. It is a way of minimising competition for limited resources, vital for survival.  
Vertical stratification in a forest ecosystem is represented by following strata of plants:
(i)   The herb layer
(ii)  The shrub layer
(iii) The small tree layer
(iv) The canopy layer