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Characteristics of Rainforests (Shrub and ground layer (Ferns, woody…
Characteristics of Rainforests
Rainforests are hot and humid all year, with high, but variable rainfall
The biodiversity is remarkable, supporting more plants and animals than any other biome
Tropical rainforests are perfectly adapted to their environment. Deciduous trees and climbing plants form a dense canopy
Soils are iron-rich and infertile because nutrient-cycling is so rapid
Small changes like deforestation or water pollution can have a big knock-on effect to the ecosystem
Lower-tree canopy
(10-20m)
Shaded. Spindly branches and lianas allow light animals to travel in this layer
Top canopy
(35-50m)
Hardly exposed emergent trees with straight branchless trunks
Middle canopy
(20-35m)
The most productive layer because each mushroom shaped crown has a large photosynthetic layer
Drip tips help leads shed water quickly and efficiently
Shrub and ground layer
Ferns, woody plants and younger trees because of lack of light
Bacteria and fungi rapidly grow on decaying leaves, dead plants and animals
Thick buttress roots help spread the weight of the large trees above
Soils (Latosols)
Cycles nutrients rapidly to support growth
If the rainforest is cleared they are quickly exhausted of nutrients