TRF

• What is the climate of tropical rainforests like throughout the year?

  It is the same all year round with no cold seasons.
• Why is it hot all the time in tropical rainforests?

  Because they are located near the equator.
• How does the length of the longest day compare to the shortest day in tropical rainforests?

  The longest day is the same as the shortest day.
• What is the average annual rainfall in tropical rainforests?

  It is around 2000 mm per year.
• How often does it rain in tropical rainforests?

  It rains every day.
• What are the characteristics of plants in tropical rainforests?

  • Plants are evergreen.
  • They take advantage of the continual growing season.
  • Many trees are very tall.
  • Little sunlight reaches the ground, resulting in minimal undergrowth.
• What type of plants grow on other living plants in tropical rainforests?

  Epiphytes, fungi, and moulds.
• How do indigenous people in tropical rainforests make a living?

  By hunting, fishing, gathering nuts and fruits, and growing crops.
• What is the quality of soil in tropical rainforests?

  The soil is very fertile but nutrients are washed away by heavy rain.
• What happens to the surface materials in tropical rainforest soil?

  They are short-lived due to decaying leaves falling.
• How does water behave in tropical rainforests?

  A lot of the water is held in the leaves instead of draining away.
• Which animals are commonly found in tropical rainforests?

  Gorillas, jaguars, anacondas, tree frogs, sloths, and howler monkeys.
• What is biodiversity and how does it relate to tropical rainforests?

  • Biodiversity is the variety of organisms living in a particular area.
  • Rainforests are 'hot spots' of biodiversity.
  • They contain around 50% of the world’s plants and many animal species.
• Why do plants and animals in rainforests not have to cope with changing conditions?

  Because the environment remains stable all year round.
• What is the impact of deforestation on biodiversity in tropical rainforests?

  It leads to the extinction of many species and loss of biodiversity.
• How did the number of described species in Brazil change from 2008 to 2014?

  It increased from 628 in 2008 to 1182 in 2014.
• What does interdependence mean in the context of rainforest ecosystems?

  • All parts of rainforests influence each other.
  • Plants and animals rely on each other for food and shelter.
  • Changes in one part can affect the entire ecosystem.
• What role do "nurse plants" play in the rainforest ecosystem?

  They provide shade and protection for smaller plants.
• How do plants and animals in rainforests rely on each other?

  Plants provide food and shelter for animals, and animals help with pollination.
• Why is flooding important for rainforest plants?

  It helps maintain nutrient levels in the soil.
• How do ants affect the ecosystem of tropical rainforests?

  They can ruin many species by feeding on insects that other creatures rely on.
• What is the relationship between Cecropia trees and ants?

  Cecropia trees attract ants that protect them from herbivores.
• What are the consequences of human interference in rainforest ecosystems?

  • Changes can have knock-on effects on the whole ecosystem.
  • Deforestation contributes to climate change.
  • Reduced tree cover increases drought risk.
• How do trees contribute to rainfall in tropical rainforests?

  They intercept and release water back into the atmosphere.
• What happens to soil when trees lose their leaves?

  The soil has less protection from erosion.
• How can one visualize the interdependence in rainforest ecosystems?

  • Create a flow diagram showing impacts of changes.
  • Follow logical steps to see effects on plants, animals, and people.