The temperature in humid tropical ecosystems is high year-round and changes little from season to season. It is extremely unusual for temperatures to dip below 20 degrees Celsius and humid tropical areas usually stay around 27 C. Of course, the moist air that permeates tropical areas make it seem much hotter, especially in tropical rainforests. Temperatures may be a few degrees cooler in dense forests where sunlight doesn't reach the ground.
With an average of 260 cm of rainfall tropical climates are the wettest in the world. Precipitation is heavy in all months, particularly during the rainy season which occurs during the summer months. The precipitation is a result of the high level of water in the air, with relative humidity levels of between 77 percent and 88 percent. This moisture usually cycles back into the atmosphere, causing clouds to form in the afternoon and creating yet more precipitation.
Humid tropical climates create lush rainforests which are home to several species of plants and animals. Tall closely grouped trees form canopies that block out sunlight. Plants grow high up in trees and little plant life grows on the forest floor. Animals thrive in the rainforest and species of elephant, ape, bird, bat and rhinoceros make these areas home. Rainforests are responsible for 40 percent of the oxygen in the atmosphere, making humid tropical ecosystems vital for planet.
Humid tropical climates occur in high altitudes in parts of South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. The location of these areas is directly responsible for their warm hot climates. Because of the Earth's tilt, areas north and south of the equator are closer or further from the sun at different times of year. However, areas near the equator are stationary and always close to the sun. This accounts for the lack of difference in seasonal temperature.