Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 3.4 Walking palms are adapted to wet environments.
(Photo by author.)
Animals of the Neotropical Rainforest
If it were not for the incredible plant diversity within the Neotropical rainforest, the
diversity of animals would be far less. The complex structure, variety of habitats,
and the abundance and diversity of leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds leads to a vast
array of animals. Animals and birds are more mobile than plants and can exploit
conditions in different layers within the Neotropical rainforest. Most are adapted
to live in specific parts of the forests. Few move between canopy and forest floor.
Trees are the home for most birds, as well as monkeys, sloths, squirrels, rats and
mice, frogs, snakes, lizards, and myriad invertebrates. Small stature, long limbs,
and skin flaps, as well as other adaptations to move freely through the trees, are
seen in birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
