Biosphere 2...The Rainforest Biome

[leonaashlee]

The tropical rainforest biome in the Biosphere 2 mesocosm was managed with rainfall and temperature conditions to simulate a natural rainforest typical of the new world tropics. The establishment of the biome was based on the introduction of excessive numbers of species allowing self-organization of an ecologically unique rainforest. Over 282 species of plants from rainforest areas were planted within the topographically diverse rainforest biome (area of 1900 m2, volume of 35 000 m3), just before the Biosphere 2 closure in 1991. Approximately 61% of these species survived when counted in 1993, representing a plant species richness reduction to 172 species in 0.19 hectare. Rank order graphs show that a high diversity community resulted not unlike insular rainforests. The plants of the rainforest mesocosm, however, grew under anomalous conditions of soil (amended desert grassland soil), atmospheric composition (CO2 up to 4500 ppm by volume (ppmv)) and rainwater composition (high salinity and nutrients). Stem growth rates of a dominant canopy tree, Cecropia, were up to four times higher but had reduced diameter at breast height compared to natural counterparts. Human intervention in plant succession was also an important factor in shaping the ecology of the rainforest biome of Biosphere 2.

[sheltiesmama]

These are some awesome shots Leona. Is that bamboo in the third? Oh, and I love that walkway going thru.

[fstopMike]

Very interesting shots, Leona. I especially love the colors on your third and the walkway in your fourth.

[Tenzin'sMom]

What wonderful photos, Leona. There's something about that second one that I just love -- perhaps the way the light comes through, along with the repetition of the stalks and leaves. But they're all beautiful!

[vimalkv]

Nice shots Leona..and also the detailed information...Love the last two shots

[dvetter]

Again very informative and interesting, the shots are very well composed. Thanks Leona.

[suprspi]

Favourites from this series are 3 and 4. I like the walkway and the interestingly coloured bamboo. (if that's what it is.)

Thanks for sharing!

[Enrique]

I like it.

great composition. the sharp colors and texture of this pictures makes this serie of pictures wonderful

[SoxAddict]

Fabulous shots Leona! Love the commentary again too, & also the nice green frames you've made. Beautifully composed.

[Preacherman]

Spectacular Leona. I love the colours and texture on the ?bamboo in No 3. Great series. Thanks. PAUL