Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 4.8 Thorn forests such as this one in Tanzania grow in sandy soils where a pro-
longed drought is common.
(Photo by author.)
mopane and miombo woodlands of Africa; and deciduous dipterocarp forests of
Asia. They are characterized by particular forest structure as well as species compo-
sition and are discussed in detail in Chapter 5.
Animals
Animal diversity in the Tropical Seasonal Forest Biome is similar to the rainforest,
but this diversity decreases toward the subtropics. Studies of seasonal forest ani-
mals reveal an overwhelming diversity, second only to the tropical rainforest. Plant
evolution and adaptation have led to diverse habitats and abundant opportunities
for the diversification of animals. Myriad bird, reptile, amphibian, and mammal
species have been recorded. Termites and other invertebrates also show high diver-
sification. Many areas of the tropical seasonal forest have not been studied exten-
sively, and many patterns of distribution as well as behaviors for seasonal forest
animals have yet to be described.
Tropical Vertebrates
Mammal species are abundant in the Tropical Seasonal Forest Biome. Primates
including marmosets, monkeys, and lesser and great apes can be found in these
tropical forests. Large rodents, such as the pacas, and agoutis of the Neotropical
