What makes a Rainforest a Rainforest?
Goal 1: To compare and contrast two different biomes (desert and rainforest)
Goal 2: To describe the layers of the rainforest.
What you will need:
- A computer to gather information
- Your workbook
- Pens, pencil and textas
Background
Biomes are defined as "the world's major communities, classified according to the major vegetation and characterised by adaptations of organisms to that particular environment" (Campbell 1996). Biomes have changed and moved many times during the history of life on Earth. More recently, human activities have drastically altered these communities. Therefore, conservation and preservation of biomes should be a major concern to all.
Biomes are usually divided into six major types:
- Freshwater
- Marine
- Desert
- Forest (including Rainforests)
- Grassland
- Tundra
After millions of years of evolution, Rainforests are the most biologically rich ecosystems on our planet. Tropical rainforests contain a hugely rich diversity of species of plants and animals. Rainforests are precious resources for all of us – not just for the nations in which they are found. They provide vital ecosystem benefits for the whole world. They store water, regulate rainfall and provide a home to over half the planet’s biodiversity.
It is important to be able to distinguish the unique features of the Rainforest. Complete the tasks below to gain a clear understanding of how different areas of the Earth can be.
What to do:
Task 1: Read through the fact sheets for Deserts and Rainforests. Print out the compare and contrast worksheet and use it to clearly define the similarities and differences of these two biomes.
Task 2: Using the URLs below, research the different layers of the rainforest. In your workbook complete the following:
- Use at least 2/3 of a page to Illustrate the vegetation layers of the rainforest
- Label the 5 different vegetation layers of rainforest
- Briefly describe each layer
http://www.rainforestsos.org/pages/structure-of-a-rainforest
http://www.geography.learnontheinternet.co.uk/topics/rainforest.html#structure