Tropical Rainforest Biome-Characteristics, Types, Location, Climate, and Examples

Tropical Rainforest Biome Definition

A tropical rainforest is a biome characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. It is the most diverse biome on Earth, with an estimated 50% of the world’s plant and animal species.

Tropical Rainforest Biome Characteristics

1. Temperature

Tropical rainforests have warm temperatures year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius (68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Humidity

Tropical rainforests are very humid, with average humidity levels ranging from 77 to 88%.

3.  Rainfall

Tropical rainforests receive an average of 150 to 400 centimeters (60 to 160 inches) of rain per year.

4.  Vegetation

Tropical rainforests are home to a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, vines, and epiphytes. The trees in tropical rainforests can grow to be very tall, reaching heights of over 100 meters (330 feet).

5. Animals

Tropical rainforests are home to a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Some of the most common animals in tropical rainforests include monkeys, snakes, jaguars, and parrots.

Types Of Tropical Rainforest Biome

There are two main types of tropical rainforests:

1.      Evergreen rainforests

These rainforests are characterized by trees that retain their leaves throughout the year.

2.      Deciduous rainforests

These rainforests are characterized by trees that lose their leaves during the dry season.

Tropical Rainforest Biome Location

Tropical rainforests are located in the equatorial region, near the equator. They are found in Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Tropical Rainforest Biome Climate

The climate of tropical rainforests is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius (68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity is also very high, with average humidity levels ranging from 77 to 88%.

Tropical Rainforest Biome Plants

The plants in tropical rainforests are adapted to the warm, humid climate. They have thick, waxy leaves that help to prevent water loss.

Some of the common plants found in tropical rainforests include:

• Trees-mahogany, rubber tree, kapok tree
• Shrubs-ferns, bamboo
• Vines-lianas, strangler fig
• Epiphytes-orchids, bromeliads

Tropical Rainforest Biome Animals

The animals in tropical rainforests are also adapted to the warm, humid climate. Many animals are arboreal, meaning they live in the trees. They have adaptations such as sharp claws and teeth for climbing, and camouflaged fur or feathers for hiding.

Some of the common animals found in tropical rainforests include:

• Mammals-monkeys, sloths, jaguars, ocelots
• Birds-parrots, toucans, macaws
• Reptiles-snakes, lizards, turtles
• Amphibians-frogs, toads
• Insects-butterflies, moths, beetles

Tropical Rainforest Biome Facts

• Tropical rainforests are home to over half of the world’s known plant and animal species.
• Tropical rainforests produce about half of the Earth’s oxygen.
• Tropical rainforests are important for regulating the Earth’s climate.
• Tropical rainforests are being destroyed at an alarming rate due to deforestation.