characteristics & biodiversity

• What is the climate of tropical rainforests?

  Hot and consistent all year round
• Why is the climate hot in tropical rainforests?

  Because the sun's energy is intense near the equator
• What is the average temperature range in tropical rainforests?

  20 - 28 °C
• How much rainfall do tropical rainforests receive annually?

  Around 2000 mm per year
• What are the characteristics of plants in tropical rainforests?

  • Most trees are evergreen
  • Trees are very tall
  • Dense vegetation cover limits light to the forest floor
  • Presence of epiphytes like orchids and ferns
• Why are tropical rainforest soils not very fertile?

  Heavy rain washes nutrients away
• What contributes to surface nutrients in tropical rainforest soil?

  Decayed leaf fall
• How does decay occur in tropical rainforest conditions?

  Decay is fast due to warm, moist conditions
• What types of animals are found in tropical rainforests?

  • Gorillas
  • Jaguars
  • Anacondas
  • Tree frogs
  • Sloths
  • Howler monkeys
  • Many species of insects and birds
• What is meant by biodiversity in the context of tropical rainforests?

  The variety of organisms living in a particular area
• What percentage of the world's species do rainforests contain?

  Around 50%
• Why are rainforests considered stable and productive environments?

  Constant hot and wet climate supports life as plants and animals don't have to cope with changing conditions and there is always plenty to eat.
• How do many organisms in rainforests depend on other species?

  They rely on a few species for survival
• What is the impact of deforestation on biodiversity?

  It leads to extinction of many species
• How many threatened species were there in Brazil in 2015?


  Almost 1200 compared to only 630 in 2010
• How do indigenous people make a living in the rainforest?

  By hunting, fishing, gathering nuts and berries and growing vegetables in small plots.