Rainforest Ecosystem
A thick, warm, wet forest near the equator that is home to more kinds of plants and animals than anywhere else on Earth.
What is it?
A rainforest ecosystem is a forest that gets a lot of rain—at least 80 inches (200 cm) per year. It stays warm all year. Rainforests are found near the equator in South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. They have many layers: the forest floor, understory, canopy, and emergent layer. The Rhinoceros Hornbill lives in the canopy layer of Southeast Asian rainforests, where it eats fruits and helps spread seeds.
Why it matters
Rainforests are important for the whole planet. They produce oxygen, store carbon, and are home to millions of species. Many medicines come from rainforest plants. Protecting rainforests helps fight climate change and saves biodiversity.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more exhibits from rainforests.