Our Disappearing Rainforests: What Shall We Save?

Destruction and Oxygen The Amazon, the largest of the world’s tropical forests, is being destroyed at an alarming rate. It is estimated that every 24 hours one million trees are cut, and that one tenth of the Amazon rain forest has already disappeared. Amazonia makes up one-third of the world’s rainforests, contains two-thirds of all river water and provides one-half of the oxygen produced globally. Where are other rain forests located?

Rain forest importance Half of the Earth’s rain forests have been destroyed. It is estimated that every day an area the size of six football fields disappears. Although tropical rain forests occupy only seventh of the Earth’s surface, they provide a habitat for more than one-half of all Earth’s living things. Why cut them down?

Rainforest Logging Prosperity for Brazilians

Slash and Burn Agriculture

Amazon Cattle Ranch

Interaction of Rainforest and atmosphere

Diverse Species The Amazon rain forest contains the world’s greatest diversity of plant and animal species. Some scientists suggest that as many as 80,000 species have not even been classified. In fact, less than one percent of the species living in rain forests have been examined to determine their benefit to and use by humankind. According to some experts, from 50 to 70 percent of all species on earth originate in the tropics. This incredible diversity of plants and animals can only survive in a tropical environment. What are some animal species living in the rain forest?

Bird of Paradise Two-Horned Chameleon

Macaw Waxy Monkey Frog

What to save? The rain forests will continually be destroyed because of human needs. However, we must prioritize things we should save. What is the most important reason to save the rainforest?