An ecosystem characterized by a dense growth of trees in a very wet climate is called a rain forest.

There are two types of rain forests: tropical and temperate. The largest areas of rain forest are in the tropics, and they are amazingly rich in life: they are home to more species of plants and animals than all the rest of the world's ecosystems combined. The dominant plants in tropical rain forests are broadleaf evergreen trees. They grow to heights of 27 m (90 ft), forming a canopy that shades the lower layers of the forest. Vines rooted in the soil grow up tree trunks and along branches until their leaves also are part of the canopy. Reaching above the canopy are lofty trees that may attain heights of 60 m (200 ft). Below the canopy is the understory, which includes young trees, ferns, and herbaceous plants. The dark floor of the forest is generally covered with leaves, seeds, fruits, and other matter that falls from the upper layers. Animal life includes monkeys, parrots, jaguars, bats, and sloths. Temperate rain forests usually occur in wet coastal areas. The dominant trees often are conifers such as redwoods and spruces. Wildlife includes hawks, owls, wolves, and martens.

WHAT IS A RAINFOREST Rainforests are the Earth's oldest living ecosystems. They are so amazing and beautiful. These incredible places cover only 6 %of the Earth's surface but yet they contain MORE THAN 1/2 of the world's plant and animal species! A Rainforest can be described as a tall, dense jungle. The reason it is called a "rain" forest is because of the high amount of rainfall it gets per year. The climate of a rain forest is very hot and humid so the animals and plants that exist there must learn to adapt to this climate. Rainforests basically have four layers to them.

As many as 30 million species of plants and animals live in tropical rainforests. At least two-thirds of the world's plant species, including many exotic and beautiful flowers grow in the rainforests.

Rainforests are the source of many items that we all use in our own homes! We eat several foods from the rainforest and many medicines are made from ingredients found only in these areas.