The primary ecological function of forests is to serve as vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and purify air and water. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change. They also protect soil from erosion and provide habitat for countless plant and animal species. Furthermore, forests influence local weather patterns and help in the water cycle by capturing rainfall and releasing it slowly into streams and rivers. Healthy forests are essential for maintaining ecological balance and providing resources like timber, food, and medicinal plants.