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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 Fuel Mahogany and teak Potential for medical and pharmaceutical use of plant material Trade Rubber

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Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests

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  1. Vulnerability of Tropical Rainforests

  2. Description • Occupies 2% of Earth’s surface (7% of land mass) • Contains 50 -90% of all species • 20% of all plant species

  3. Commercial Value • Wood • Fuel • Mahogany and teak • Potential for medical and pharmaceutical use of plant material • Trade • Rubber • Latex • Chicle • Nuts • Tourism and Ecotourism

  4. Vulnerability? • Most fertile and productive ecosystems • Decomposition rates are very fast • Nutrients are incorporated quickly into vegetation • Land used as cattle ranching • Leaches nutrients • Decreases root holding capactiy • Decrease in transpiration • Changes weather patterns • Areas become deserts

  5. Ecological Value • Photosynthesis and oxygen regeneration • Water cycling and purification • Climate control

  6. Cultural Value • Indigenous people have intrinsic rights • Great knowledge and wisdom • Plants life • Medical uses of plants

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