The study looked at how the growth of European beech trees is affected by their neighborhood. Researchers studied trees in different types of forests to see how they grow in relation to their neighbors. They found that the type of trees surrounding a beech tree can influence its growth patterns. By analyzing the physiological processes of the trees, they were able to explain why certain growth responses occurred. The study was conducted in three long-term research areas in Germany, focusing on biodiversity. Overall, the research aimed to understand how tree growth is influenced by the species of trees around them.