Rainforests, which once occupied a large portion of the land around the equator, now account for only 3% or 4% of the Earth's total land area. Yet half of all animal species live here—that is, the animals we know. One thing is certain: we still don't even know about numerous animal species, and at least as many plants, in the rainforest! It is therefore impossible to determine exactly how great the biodiversity in tropical forests really is. This makes the threat to the rainforest and the loss of large areas all the more serious.
Why do tropical forests provide perfect habitat for so many animal species?
An easy question to answer: tropical forests have plenty of water, a more or less constant temperature that never gets too cold, and accordingly a lot of vegetation. A paradise for herbivorous species, where they thrive. And a richly laid table for predators. At the same time, there are so many biological niches in the world's rainforests that numerous animal "specialists" have been able to settle there. For example, insects that only live on the bark or branches of certain trees. Many animal species are so perfectly adapted to their own niche that they can only survive in the rainforest, or perhaps even only in a very specific area of the rainforest.
A perfect ecosystem
Tropical forests are perfectly balanced ecosystems. They are the planet's green lungs and water reservoirs. Their preservation is the only way for the animals living there (and, incidentally, many indigenous peoples) to maintain their natural way of life. Let's be honest – zoos are not a "natural" environment for animals. Conversely, wildlife is also important for the survival of tropical forests, because the complex biological cycle in the rainforest depends on a multitude of insects, birds, scavengers, and predators. If even one tiny component is missing, the entire system is thrown into disarray.
Endangered tropical wildlife
The deforestation of large areas affects ALL animal species living there. We can see in the media how severely threatened the orangutans of Sumatra and Borneo are, and we know about the decline in the numbers of big cats in South America. Gorillas in Africa – and other primates – are also increasingly being pushed out by deforestation or end up as "bush meat" in the village market.
The destruction continues
Although attempts have been made to halt deforestation since the 1990s, 29,100 square kilometers of rainforest were destroyed in the Brazilian Amazon alone in 2019. This is irreversible. The consequences for the wildlife, flora, and indigenous peoples of the tropics in Africa, Asia, and South America are still incalculable. Countless plant and animal species we have yet to discover are disappearing.
In addition, poaching is taking its toll on species. Animals are hunted as trophies or for their horns and teeth. Exotic animals sell well in some places as "pets" or for arranged hunts. The trade is lucrative, although only a fraction of the poor "passengers" survive the horrific, illegal transports.
Raise more awareness!
We need to take a closer look. We need to realize that everything that is destroyed is irretrievably lost—for us, but even more so for all generations after us. They will have to live without the riches we have squandered, at least for as long as they live. Because what many don't realize is that we aren't saving nature. When humans have rendered the Earth uninhabitable and become extinct, nature will bring forth new life. Possibly new rainforests. And they will then be safe from us!
About NIKIN – and what we do for the forests
At NIKIN, we're committed to ensuring that the world's forests continue to provide the habitats the animals and plants need. That's why we support the work of our partner organization OneTreePlanted. With every purchase from NIKIN, you donate a tree! This way, with a small amount of money, you can help prevent the rainforest from disappearing completely.
