Rainforest

Rainforest is a type of forest characterized by high rainfall, with annual rainfall in the case of tropical rainforests between 250 and 450 centimetres (98 and 177 in), and definitions varying by region for temperate rainforests.

Description

The monsoon trough, alternatively known as the Intertropical Convergence Zone, plays a significant role in creating the climatic conditions necessary for the world's tropical rainforests: which are distinct from monsoonal areas of seasonal tropical forest.

Biodiversity

Rainforests are home to vast numbers of species. For example, it is estimated that the Amazon rainforest alone contains around 16,000 tree species and 390 billion individual trees.

Layers

A tropical rainforest typically has a number of layers, each with different plants and animals adapted for life in that particular area. These include the emergent, canopy, understory and forest floor layers.

Human impact

Tropical rainforests have been called the "jewels of the Earth" and the "world's largest pharmacy", because over one quarter of natural medicines have been discovered there. However, they are under threat from deforestation and other human activities.

See also

• Tropical rainforest
• Temperate rainforest
• Deforestation
• Biodiversity

External links

• Rainforest Facts
• Rainforest Action Network

Rainforest Resources
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