Unit 3 Conserving our tropical rainforests Unit 3 Conserving our tropical rainforests.
Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests
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Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests
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Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests. Description. Occupies 2% of Earth’s surface (7% of land mass) Contains 50 -90% of all species 20% of all plant species. Commercial Value. Wood Fuel Mahogany and teak Potential for medical and pharmaceutical use of plant material Trade Rubber - PowerPoint PPT Presentation
Transcript of Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests
Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests
Description
Occupies 2% of Earth’s surface (7% of land mass)
Contains 50 -90% of all species 20% of all plant species
Commercial Value
Wood FuelMahogany and teak
Potential for medical and pharmaceutical use of plant materialTrade
RubberLatexChicleNuts
Tourism and Ecotourism
Vulnerability?
Most fertile and productive ecosystemsDecomposition rates are very fastNutrients are incorporated quickly into vegetationLand used as cattle ranching
Leaches nutrientsDecreases root holding capactiyDecrease in transpiration
Changes weather patternsAreas become deserts
Ecological Value
Photosynthesis and oxygen regeneration
Water cycling and purification
Climate control
Cultural Value
Indigenous people have intrinsic rights
Great knowledge and wisdomPlants life
Medical uses of plants
