Natural landscapes in hot climates

4. NATURAL LANDSCAPES IN HOT CLIMATES -

INTRODUCCION The natural landscapes of climates are found between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

It is hot all year round There is no winter There are three landscapes: - 1. Rainforest : - Equatorial - Tropical

- 2. the savannah - 3. Hot desert

4. NATURAL LANDSCAPES IN HOT CLIMATES 1. RAINFOREST Rainforests are vital for our planet because their vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide and supply us with wood and other products.

1.A. EQUATORIAL RAINFORESTS They are found near the Equator in South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

Precipitation is abundant Temperatures are high Vegetation: - It is dense and varied due to the heat and humidity.

- At the highest level, or canopy, the tallest trees receive the most sunlight.

- Moss and fungi grow on he forest floor because the soil is poor.

- Plant species:rubber, banana trees and bamboo.

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The fauna: -

It is varied and abundant.

Many species of insects, colourful birds, apes, reptiles and amphibians

1.B. TROPICAL RAINFORESTS They are found at higher latitudes They are similar to equatorial rainforests.

The trees are not high and the vegetation is not as densethan in the equatorial More light reaches the forest floor, where smaller trees, shrubs and ferns grow.

THE AMAZON IN DANGER -

Amazon rainforest is important for the Earh ‘s biodiversity. It is home to numerous species of plants and animals.

Many trees are cut down and the land is used for agriculture.

Natural reserves are over-exploited and Amazon is poluted by people ho live along the Amazon river.

4. NATURAL LANDSCAPES IN HOT CLIMATES 2. THE SAVANNAH -Savannahs are found in tropical climates between rainforests and hot deserts.

- The savannah has very tall grass during the rainy season.

- It also has shrubs and some scattered trees.

- The fauna is abundant: elephants, giraffes, lions and zebras.

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THE SAVANNAH IN DANGER The savannah is threatened by drought.

Global warming and the lack of water cause soil erosion and desertification.

Agriculture and stock farming afect this ecosystem 3. HOT DESERT Hot deserts are found in tropical areas where rainfall is very scarce.

There is little vegetation because of the lack of water. Few plants, like cactuses can grow.

The water in oases allows palm trees and other plants.

The fauna s scrce with reptiles, rodents and some predators