This excellent overview illuminates one of the most fascinating and endangered ecosystems—tropical rainforests. Along with detailed descriptions and beautiful illustrations of the various plants, insects, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals that inhabit the rainforests and related habitats, this book also explains: · Forest layers, features, microclimates, food chains · Rainforest locations across the globe · Cultural, biological, and geological values of rainforests Its valuable message of conservation makes this guide not only an entertaining reference but an important educational resource. Using clear text and detailed illustrations, Golden Guides from St. Martin's Press present accurate information in a handy format for the beginner to the expert. These guides focus on what your students are really going to see. They are easy to use: detailed, full-color illustrations, text, and maps are all in one place. They are easy to understand: accurate, accessible information is simplified without being misrepresented. They are authoritative, containing up-to-date information written experts and checked by specialists. And they are portable: handy and lightweight, designed to fit in a pocket and be carried anywhere.