Climate and Precipitation in Rainforests

Climate Characteristics

• Tropical rainforests are located near the equator across South America, Central America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia.
• The climate is consistently warm and wet, with temperatures ranging from 68 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Rainfall averages between 60 - 200 inches annually; the region experiences a wet season and a dry season of approximately equal length.
• Soil in rainforests is nutrient-poor and damp, washing away essential nutrients due to heavy precipitation.

Forest Composition

• Rainforests are dense and support diverse plant and animal life, benefiting from high biodiversity.
• Notable tree species include the Kapok tree and the Giant Mahogany tree, both capable of growing over 100 feet tall.
• The Astrocaryum fruit tree and other fruit-bearing trees thrive, while shrubs, palms, and woody plants flourishes on the dim forest floor.
• Some plants, like liana vines, have roots in the ground but climb high to access sunlight, maximizing photosynthesis.
• Non-rooted plants like ferns, orchids, and bromeliads also contribute to forest diversity.

Animal Life and Ecosystem Roles

• Red-eyed tree frogs inhabit the rainforest, while birds, bats, and insects occupy the tree canopy.
• Key avian species include Harpy Eagles, which prey on small mammals and reptiles like sloths and snakes.
• Howler Monkeys feed on fruit and leaves, contributing to seed dispersal.
• Jaguars serve as apex predators, regulating populations of large mammals and thriving both on the ground and in trees.
• Capybaras are herbivorous rodents that reside on the forest floor and near water sources, with an awareness of predators like jaguars and anacondas.

Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling

• Decomposers play a crucial role in nutrient recycling within the rainforest ecosystem.
• Visible decomposers include snails, ants, worms, and termites, while microscopic decomposers like bacteria and fungi break down organic material.
• The breakdown of waste contributes essential nutrients to the soil, vital for plant growth despite the overall nutrient-poor condition.