Rainforests

Question 1

What is the soil like in the rainforest?

Answer 1

1. Not very fertile
2. Thin layer of fertile soil where dead leaves decompose
3. Nutrient cycling is very rapid due to humid conditions
4. Due to heavy rainfall, nutrients are quickly washed away.

Question 2

What are the layers of the rainforest?

Answer 2

1. Shrub layer- dark with small plants
2. Under canopy- small trees compete for light in the dark
3. Main canopy- tall trees 50% of life
4. Emergent- tallest trees

Question 3

What are some adaptations they have?

Answer 3

1. Drip tips have pointy leaves so water runs off quickly
2. Buttress roots have large roots, to support the tree

Question 4

How does the rainforest maintain soil health?

Answer 4

1. Rich fertile top layer, rapidly leaf fall and recycle nutrients
2. Can be used to grow maize which is the staple diet for local people

Question 5

How is the rainforest important for goods and services?

Answer 5

1. Can produce nuts, local diet
2. Medicines like the rosy periwinkle from Madagascar
3. Raw materials like timber for furniture

Question 6

What are the impacts of soil erosion?

Answer 6

1. Soil is left bare
2. Nutrient cycle stops no plants are shedding
3. Cannot support life, not fertile
4. No trees to hold the soil together so it is easily eroded

Question 7

What are the impacts of climate change?

Answer 7

1. Fewer trees and plants, less carbon dioxide
2. Global warming
3. Climate change