2Rainforest plantsAnd the enormous the number of different species of plants grow inrainforests, with many species occurring only in one particular region.Unlike other forests, rain forests have an abundance of :Epiphytes plants which live above the ground growing ontree trunks and branches, Example orchids,ferns, mossesClimbing plants including large woody climbers called lianaswhich are rooted in the soil and usually reach thecanopy. The climbers twist around the tree trunks,and loop from one tree to another in the canopy,binding the trees together.
3leaves protects against hot sun, heavy rain, and strong winds Strong scent of fruits attractsanimals, which feed on thefruit and assist in dispersalof the seedsThick, waxy surface ofleaves protects againsthot sun, heavy rain,and strong windsStrong scent and brightcolours of flowersattract insects whichassist in pollinationAerial roots ofepiphytes absorbmoisture from theairTall straight trunksno side branchesThin, smooth barkShallow spreadingroot systemButtress roots
4Pitcher plant - a carnivorous plant. Parasitic plantslippery rimtendrilOrchid - sun-loving rootsattached themselves tobranches and absorb nutrientsInsects falling into thepitcher are digested, and nutrients which are released are absorbed by the plant.
5Structure of the rainforest The dominant plants in a rainforest are giant trees. The hot wet climate enables them to grow all year round, and they remain evergreen, continuously shedding their leaves and growing new ones.The average height of rainforest trees is about 45 metres, although the emergence (trees which tower above the others) may go as high as 90 metres. Smaller trees growing the under story (layer between the canopy and the forest floor).Several layers can be identified within the forest
7Canopy layer - formed by the crowns of the tall trees and contains a mass of branches, Leaves, flowers and fruit.Conditions in the canopy vary, and include:Hot sunshineHeavy rainfallTropical stormsMiddle layer - the Vegetation here is more sparse. The trees tend to have pointed crowns and, when a giant tree falls, they grow quickly to fill a gap in the canopyConditions within the forest on more or less constant:There is little variation in temperatureThe air is moist and stillRain on the canopy drips to the forest floor several minutes laterA breeze is rare, even during storms
8Shrub layer - scattered shrubs, saplings (young trees) and ferns. Herb layer - a few non-woody, soft stemmed plants with thin leaves.Leaf litter thin layer covers the forest floor.Soil layer most roots growing the top 10 centimetreswhether nutrients are found.