What plants are in tropical rainforests?
There are thousands of varieties of plants in tropical rainforests, many of which may not have been discovered or studied by scientists. Even though the rainforest only covers two percent of the earth’s surface, one kilometer is estimated to have 150,000 species of plants. Two-thirds of the world’s plant life can be found to have adapted to humid life in this tropical environment. There is more plant variance in this warm environment than can be found in other areas of the world. Evolution can be seen in the ways plants have managed to find their nutrients among so much competition.
Characteristics of Typical Plants
In the lower canopy of the forest, where not a lot of light can reach, many plants have larger leaves for maximum absorption of sunlight. Some plants climb on others in order to reach areas with more sunlight. There are flowering plants that make it in this lower level by attracting insects. Some tropical plants have drip tips or oily coatings to shed water.
Examples of Common Species
There are Bromeliads, which have thick, waxy leaves, and are home to many small creatures. These plants are brightly colored and catch rainwater easily. Epiphytes are air plants which have their roots in the air, gathering nutrients in this unique way. Different types of these plants can be found on the same tree. There are Carnivorous Plants and Orchids which attract insects. Strangler trees are in the fig family and don’t bother to fight for nutrients at the canopy level. They grow roots around a tree, strangle it, then use the hollow core as its base to gain better access to nutrients and sunlight. Lianas are thick vines which use the myriad of rainforest trees for support.
Future of the Rainforest at Stake
The tropical rainforest has endured drought due to climate changes, and of course rapid deforestation, both of which contribute to irreversible damage. Scientists say that these issues will create terrible global climate changes.
