DEFINITION AND 7 CHARACTERISTICS OF TROPICAL RAINFOREST

Tropical rainforests are biomes found near the equator, typically within the tropics, characterized by high temperatures, abundant rainfall, and dense vegetation consisting of tall trees with broad leaves. These ecosystems support a diverse array of plant and animal species and are often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth" due to their significant role in regulating the global climate and oxygen production.
Characteristics of Tropical Rainforests:
1. High Biodiversity: Tropical rainforests are known for their unparalleled biodiversity, with a vast array of plant and animal species. They are home to millions of species, including countless insects, birds, mammals, amphibians, and plants, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
2. Tall Canopy Layer: One of the defining features of tropical rainforests is their dense canopy layer formed by the tall trees that tower above the forest floor. These trees, often reaching heights of 100 feet or more, form a continuous canopy that shades the forest floor and creates a unique microclimate below.
3. Abundant Rainfall: Tropical rainforests receive high levels of rainfall throughout the year, typically exceeding 2,000 millimeters (80 inches) annually. This abundant rainfall sustains the lush vegetation and supports the diverse array of life found within the ecosystem.
4. Warm and Humid Climate: Tropical rainforests experience warm temperatures year-round, with little seasonal variation. Average temperatures typically range between 20°C and 25°C, creating a humid environment that fosters rapid plant growth and decomposition.
5. Rich Soil: Despite the rapid decomposition of organic matter, the soil in tropical rainforests tends to be relatively poor in nutrients. Most of the nutrients are stored within the biomass of the vegetation rather than the soil itself, making the ecosystem highly dependent on the recycling of nutrients through decomposition and nutrient cycling processes.
6. Epiphytes and Lianas: Tropical rainforests are known for their abundance of epiphytes, plants that grow on other plants for support, such as orchids and bromeliads. Lianas, woody vines that climb trees to reach sunlight, are also common in tropical rainforests, contributing to the intricate structure of the forest canopy.
7. Continuous Growth and Regeneration: Tropical rainforests are dynamic ecosystems characterized by continuous growth, regeneration, and competition for resources.