Emergent layer: Consists of the tallest trees that receive the most sunlight, but endure high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds .
Canopy: The broad, irregular crowns of these trees form a tight, continuous canopy 60 to 90 feet above the ground. The canopy is home to 90% of the organisms found in the rain forest. Understory: Receiving only 2-15% of the sunlight that falls on the canopy, the understory is a dark place. It is relatively open and contains young trees and leafy herbaceous plants that tolerate low light. Forest Floor: The forest floor receives less than 2% of the sunlight, and little grows here except plants adapted to very low light. |