Forests

A Forest is… A habitat that has many trees.

Tropical Rainforests Tropical rain forests are forest habitats found near the equator. They are very green, and rich in nutrients. They have more kinds of living things than any other land habitat. Tropical rain forests are HOT and WET. Temperatures are usually between 68 and 93 degrees Fahrenheit, and they get inches of rain per year.

Temperate Forests Temperate forests are found in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have all four seasons. Temperatures change based on the season. About inches of rain fall in temperate forests each year. Soil is rich in humus, which keeps the soil moist and supplies nutrients for plants to grow.

Rainforest Plant Adaptations Trees grow very tall and branches spread out in the canopy layer. Many trees have shallow roots, so buttresses help support their size. Smaller plants and trees have drip tips to help them lose extra rain water. Plants near the forest floor have large leaves to help them soak in the small amount of sunlight that reaches the forest floor.

Temperate Forest Plant Adaptations Deciduous trees lose their leaves when the temperature gets colder. This helps them save energy. Coniferous trees make cones instead of flowers. Their needles are tough and waxy, which helps them save water during the winter.

Rainforest Animal Adaptations Some animals are brightly colored to warn predators that they are poisonous. Many animals use mimicry to hide in their surroundings. They look like something else in their habitat. Poison Arrow Frog Orchid Mantis

Temperate Forest Animal Adaptations Some animals store food for winter, or grow thicker coats to stay warm. Animals also have fur that changes color based on the season, to help them camouflage themselves. Other animals hibernate during winter. They live off of energy stored in their bodies. Some animals spray to keep predators away, while others stay safe using quills.