Briefing: A forest full of layers

Rainforests are forests with lots of rain and many kinds of living things. Tropical rainforests are found near the Equator, where it is warm throughout the year. The Amazon rainforest is in South America. Other tropical rainforests are found in Africa and Asia. A rainforest has four main layers. The emergent layer is made up of the tallest trees, rising above the canopy. The canopy is a leafy roof where many animals find food and shelter. Below it, the shady understorey has smaller trees and plants. On the forest floor, little sunlight reaches the ground, so plants often grow slowly. Dead leaves and fallen branches break down and return nutrients to the soil. Rainforests matter to people and wildlife. They provide habitats, and people use some rainforest plants for food and medicines. Cutting down too many trees can destroy habitats. Choosing products carefully and protecting forest areas can help.