What?

 

There are two main types of rainforests in the world known as tropical or temperate. There are more tropical rainforests than temperate, and tropical rainforests make up two-thirds of all rainforests in the world.

 

Tropical Rainforests

Tropical rainforests are located close to the equator and receive heavy rainfall throughout the year. Because tropical rainforests are close to the equator they get lots of sunlight, and temperatures are usually high - between 20 and 35°C. Click on the following link to find out a bit more about tropical rainforests:

http://www.blueplanetbiomes.org/rainforest.htm

 

Temperate Rainforests

Temperate rainforests are broken down into several categories. Have a look at this website to gain a general understanding about temperate rainforests in the world:

http://www.isfoundation.com/news/

 

Layers of a Rainforest

Rainforests are broken up into four different layers. Different types of plants and animals live and grow in the different layers, which include:

 

The Emergent Layer

The trees that make up this layer are the tallest trees in a rainforest.

The emergent layer houses many birds and insects.

 

The Canopy

This layer is like a roof. This layer is made up of thick branches and leaves of the taller trees.

Most of the animals of the rainforest make the canopy their home (approximately 90%).

Living in this layer are insects, birds, reptiles, mammals and more.

 

The Understorey

The understorey is made up of tall shrubs and smaller trees less than 10 metres in height.

Because this layer of the rainforest is very dark and damp, there are no animals that live in

this layer. However, you will find moss and algae growing here, as well as ferns, palms and

climbing vines.

 

The Forest Floor

The forest floor is like the carpet of the rainforest.

Here you will find many insects, fungi, other organisms, and large animals. The forest floor is also an ideal

hunting ground for predators that can hide and await their prey.