Tropical Rainforest: Characteristics and Functions

Vocabulary flashcards covering the major characteristics, structure, biodiversity, soil, and ecological functions of tropical rainforests, as well as human uses of rainforest resources.

Tropical rainforest climate

Stable, warm temperatures with high rainfall, typically over 2,000 mm annually.

Emergent layer

Topmost layer formed by the tallest trees rising above the canopy.

Canopy

Dense ceiling of leaves that forms the upper layer of the forest.

Understory

Lower layer of smaller plants and shrubs beneath the canopy.

Forest floor

Bottom layer with decomposing matter; soil is thin and nutrient-poor.

Biodiversity

Extreme variety of plant and animal life, with many species unique to the rainforest.

Nutrient-poor soil

Soil that is thin, acidic, and low in nutrients; most nutrients are in the surface litter.

Nutrient leaching

Process by which heavy rainfall washes nutrients from the soil.

Carbon sink

A system or ecosystem that absorbs more CO2 than it releases; rainforests are major carbon sinks.

Photosynthesis

Process by which green plants convert light energy, CO2, and water into sugars, releasing oxygen.

Oxygen production

Oxygen released during photosynthesis.

Climate regulation

Rainforests help regulate the global climate by absorbing CO2 and releasing O2.

Water cycle influence

They influence precipitation patterns and help moderate floods and droughts.

Nutrient cycling

Rapid decomposition of organic matter and efficient nutrient uptake by plants sustain soil fertility.

Habitat and biodiversity

Provide essential habitat for many species, supporting global biodiversity and many endemic species.

Endemic species

Species native to and found nowhere else on Earth.

Timber resources

Wood harvested from rainforest trees for construction and products.

Non-timber forest products

Gums, resins, oils, and other products collected without felling trees.

Medicines from rainforest plants

Many natural medicines are derived from rainforest flora.

Rainforest food resources

Edible products such as bananas and coconuts produced in rainforest regions.