Tropical Forests

Tropical forests are the most diverse and complex of the world's ecosystems. They are also among the most vulnerable and threatened habitats on Earth. Their value to humanity is immense through their influence on the atmosphere and global climate. ""Tropical Forests"" explores the great biodiversity of forests, from microbes to mammals, as well as the adaptations of organisms to their environment and to the other species surrounding them. The interactions between organisms and their physical surroundings are examined, as are the processes linking the two into an integrated ecosystem.This accessible book portrays the importance of tropical forests with a balance of factual accuracy and a sense of wonder. The chapters are arranged in a logical structure, beginning with the physical setting, including the geography, geology, and climatic conditions of tropical forests. Diagrams, full-color photographs and illustrations, and informative sidebars highlight the function, value, and sheer beauty of this remarkable ecosystem.