Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
6
Conclusion
Tropical forests have the greatest biodiversity of all biomes in the world, but now
occupy less than 7 percent of the Earth's surface. Their position on and near the
Equator with abundant sun and moisture produces a rich array of flora and fauna.
Tropical forests are found in Central and South America, West and Central Africa
and Madagascar, and most of Southeast Asia, India, Australia, New Guinea, and the
islands of the Pacific. Each region has a unique set of plants and animals that have
evolved over millions of years. Each region's flora and fauna bear remarkable similar-
ities in size, shape, or behavior to those in the other regions; however, in most cases,
they are unrelated. Similar environments have resulted in convergent evolution.
Tropical forests are the most ancient, diverse, and ecologically complex of the
planet's ecosystems and support more than half of the Earth's species. They are a
complex network of interrelated systems. Tropical forests are home to some of the
largest trees in the world as well as the smallest animals. The multiple layers of can-
opy provide myriad resources and habitats for animals. At least 3 million species
are thought to inhabit tropical forests although this number may actually be 10 or
more times greater. Only about 500,000 species have actually been scientifically
described, and many species are still to be discovered. Mammals, birds, reptiles,
and amphibians, as well as insects and other invertebrates are more abundant here
than any other place on Earth.
Tropical forests contribute far more to the world than just sustaining biodiver-
sity. They provide habitat and homes to indigenous peoples, a multitude of natural
products such as food, building materials, and medicines as well as ecosystem ser-
vices such as soil stabilization and flood prevention, among others. These forests
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