The definition of a dry forest is a biome and, contrary to what may be thought, they actually receive hundreds of inches of rainfall every year, but unlike a rainforest they have months of drought where they receive no rain whatsoever, which has a huge impact on the entire eco system.
- Where are dry forests found?
Dry forests can be found in a number of different places, both north and south of the equator, and of subtropical deserts. They can be found in southern Mexico, on the Pacific coast, north west of South America, south eastern Africa, Madagascar, central India and Indochina, Australia and the sub tropical areas of the United States.
- What kinds of trees can be found in a dry forest?
The vast majority of trees in a dry forest are deciduous. This is because the leaves lose moisture so by getting rid of the leaves the trees are able to preserve water throughout the periods of drought.
- What is the impact of trees losing their leaves on the forest?
The impact is two-fold. Once the trees have lost their leaves, the sun can penetrate through their branches and to the forest floor. This means that a thick underbrush can grow. The falling leaves also rot, and between the rotting leaves and the new underbrush a whole eco system can develop and thrive.
- Is there any wildlife in a dry forest?
Dry forests do not have the same diversity of wildlife as rain forests do, but they are still home to many different species, especially of mammals, particularly in Asia and Africa. Monkeys, large cats, deer, and a variety of rodents can be found, as well as parrots and ground dwelling birds.
