What Are Tropical Rainforests?

Tropical rainforests (equatorial rainforests) are evergreen forests near the Equator (10°N–10°S) with:

• High rainfall: 200–400 inches annually.
• Warm, stable temperatures: ~80°F (27°C) year-round.
• High humidity: Often >90%.
• Dense, layered vegetation: Tall broadleaf trees, thick understory.
• Incredible biodiversity: E.g., Amazon has >10,000 tree species, 1,000+ birds, 500 mammals, 1,500 reptiles/amphibians.

Importance

• Global climate regulation (carbon sink).
• Watershed protection (erosion control, water filtration).
• Food, shelter, medicine for millions.
• Ecotourism revenue.

Threats

• Deforestation (agriculture, logging, mining).
• Climate change (altered rainfall, increased fires).
• Pollution.

Protection

• Reduce deforestation (recycled products, conservation support).
• Cut greenhouse gases (less driving, energy use, meat).
• Reduce pollution (recycle, compost, drive less).

Preserving rainforests safeguards climate, livelihoods, and potential cures.