The tropical rainforest is home to many animals and plants as well as playing an important role in the Earth's ecology. It's the plants that are found in the tropical rainforest that are responsible for much of the oxygen that is produced on the planet. Many of the plants in the rainforest are also important in the fight against disease due to their healing properties.



Tropical rainforest is home to many rare animal species such as the Brazilian Tapir, found only in some areas of South America. Brazilian Tapir is a mammal which likes to live near water swimming and diving, feeding on leaves and small branches. Being naturally afraid of anything larger than itself it is harmless to man. It likes to live mainly near the lakes and ponds that are present in the tropical rainforest. Besides this there are many other unique animals that have made this beautiful rainforest their home.

There are also many varieties of birds to be found in the rainforest. One such bird is the Crested Guan, which can be found on the northern tip of South America. This bird lives in the tall trees of the rainforest and lives off of the seeds and fruits that are available on the floor of the tropical rainforest.

In addition to the many bird species, the tropical rainforest is host to a variety of reptiles. One particular reptile found in the forest of Indonesia and the Philippines is called the Flying Dragon. The Flying Dragon earned its name because he seems to fly from one tree to another by using his skin flaps like wings. This reptile's preferred diet consists of eating ants and other insects. The Flying Dragon buries its eggs in fertile soil for breeding.

The Slow Loris is another animal that is unique to the tropical rainforest. This animal will spend most of his day in the tops of trees sleeping quietly. At night you'll find him feeding on shoots and leaves, small birds, bird's eggs, and insects that he finds on the ground. The Loris is a very slow mover but you'll rarely see him stumble as he makes his way from tree top to the forest floor. You might even see him hanging upside down from his feet.

You will also find numerous varieties of snakes in these rainforest. One such variety is called the Vine Snake. It gets its name from the fact this snake has only half inch diameter thickness. Another factor is its ability to swing from one side to another, like a vine in wind, when frightened for example in a situation when it is stalked by a predator. It is found mainly in central and northern South America. It feeds on lizards and small birds. These small birds are often stolen by these snakes from their nests. While the lizards are got either from the trees or running on the forest floor

Besides the above mentioned species, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of animal species living in the tropical rainforests. Most of these animals have developed unique features that help them survive in this beautiful, but demanding, environment. The tropical rainforest is amazing to see - a wonderful learning opportunity to observe a rare part of the world and the plants and animals that live there.