Why are Rainforests Rich in Biodiversity?
Rainforests are defined as large, luxuriant forests that are wet and humid. They are usually located in tropical areas (as these areas have humid climates) and they are, by definition, rich in biodiversity.
The word ‘biodiversity’ refers to a large variety of different plant and animal life in one area. Despite covering only 6-7% of the world’s surface, rainforests are the most biodiverse regions of the world.
Scientists have recently reported that it would take them three centuries to finish cataloguing all of the trees in the Amazon rainforest, for example.
Why are rainforests so rich in biodiversity? Here are 4 reasons why rainforests are biodiverse.
- Humidity. The humidity of a rainforest provides the perfect climate for plant and animal life to proliferate.
- Untouched. Humans are still exploring the world’s largest rainforests. Being untouched by humans allows plant and animal life to flourish.
- Age. Rainforests are many millions of years old. Thus, there has been plenty of opportunity for animal and plant life to evolve and establish itself in the rainforest.
- Stability. Thanks to the tree canopy, the climate within a rainforest is stable and predictable. This makes it a very non-stressful environment for animals to live in.
Conclusion.
Rainforests are incredibly biodiverse because they provide a stable, humid climate for animals and plants to flourish in.
