Rainforests // #EnglishLearners

Rainforests Rainforests are hot, steamy jungles that grow near the Equator. They are home to more than half of all the types of plants and animals on Earth. Rainforests are hot and steamy because they grow mainly in the warm areas near the Equator, called the tropics. The world`s biggest rainforests are shown in the green on this map. Rainforests cover a small part of the Earth but contain thousands of plants and animals. Forest layers Rainforest trees grow in layers. Each layer has its own plants, insects, birds and animals. The emergent layer has the tallest trees. Their tops tower above the ground. The canopy is like a thick, green umbrella. Most animals live there. The understorey has shorter trees, covered in creepers and vines. The forest floor is gloomy, dark, and covered in dead leaves, fungi, and ferns. Animals Every part of the rainforest is alive with animals, from spectacular butterflies to parrots, frogs, snakes, jaguars, and millions of creepy-crawlies. The biggest rainforest The world`s biggest rainforest grows along the banks of the Amazon River in South America. The forest is about the same size as Australia. Rainforest riches Food, wood, medicines, and other useful products come from rainforest plants. Even chocolate comes from the beans of a rainforest tree. Hot and wet In the rainforest, the weather is hot and wet all year round. Animals, such as this orangutan, use an umbrella of leaves to shelter from the pouring rain. Plants Some orchids have their roots in the air to soak up water. Some plants, such as beautiful orchids, grow high up on the branches of the canopy trees. The steamy rainforest heat is ideal for many plants to bloom.