L2 - Amazon Leaching Flashcards
Why do trees in the rainforest have such shallow roots?
This is because rainforests have a shallow layer of fertile soil, so trees only need shallow roots to reach the nutrients
Why does soil erosion quickly become such a catastrophic problem?
When trees are cut down, their roots which help anchor the soil can no longer protect the ground, and so the soil (and it’s nutrients) are quickly washed away with rain - flooding can occur
Name six indirect effects of deforestation
1) leaching
2) less carbon dioxide absorption
3) removal of habitats
4) increase in light reaching forest floor (organic matter decompose faster which release more carbon dioxide in to the atmosphere)
5) less evapotranspiration
6) increase in run-off and soil erosion
What happens during droughts?
Less CO2 is absorbed
How does climate change impact the animals area?
Frogs get diseases, caused by climate change which is caused by global warming which is caused by an increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere
What does living matter provide for soil formation?
Humus
What do plant roots do?
They hold the soil together
What does organic matter do?
It slows down the movement of water through the soil which helps prevent leaching
What process adds nutrient to the soil?
The decomposition of organic matter
What do insects and animals help with in regards to the soil?
They burrow into it which helps the circulation of water and air in it
What is an example of a nitrogen fixing plant?
A turnip
How many settlements are there near the Pristine Forest?
286
