Physical characteristics of a tropical rainforest

Outline of Tropical Rainforest Structure and Climate

1. Layers of the Rainforest

A. Emergent Layer

• Tallest trees (over 50 m)

• Example: Kapok tree

B. Canopy

• Dense layer, blocks sunlight

• Houses over 50% of wildlife (birds, snakes, monkeys)

• Contains climbing plants (lianas) and epiphytes

C. Under-Canopy

• Features bare tree trunks and lianas

D. Shrub Layer

• Densest vegetation (shrubs, ferns)

• Contains young trees needing less light

E. Forest Floor

• Dark and damp; layer of litter

• Rapid decomposition forms nutrient-rich humus

• Poor nutrient levels in deeper soil due to leaching

2. Plant Adaptations

• Emergent trees have branches only at the crown

• Under-canopy plants have large leaves for photosynthesis

• Trees have wide buttress roots and thin bark for support and water absorption

• Shrub layer plants have drip tips and waxy leaves

3. Climate of the Rainforest

• Located near the Equator; warm and wet conditions

• Average temperatures: 26-28°C, rarely below 20°C or above 35°C

• High rainfall (over 2000 mm annually)

4. Nutrient Cycle

• Nutrients stored mainly in biomass

• Rapid recycling due to warm, moist conditions

• Decomposers play a crucial role in breaking down organic material

• Fragility of the nutrient cycle: deforestation leads to infertility and leaching of soil nutrients.