Consider the location of the forest. Tropical rain forests are, generally found closer to the equator, in the area traditionally bounded by the tropics of Capricorn and Cancer. Temperate deciduous forests are typically located outside of this zone, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Arctic Circle, or the Tropic of Capricorn and the Antarctic Circle.
Consider the temperature of the forest. Tropical rain forests exist in extremely warm climates, while temperate deciduous forests are found in areas of moderate or cool climate.
Determine the number of tree species found in the forest. There is a dramatic difference in the number of tree species found in a typical tropical rain forest, compared to the number found in a temperate deciduous forest. Tree species in tropical rain forests number in the hundreds, while temperate forests typically contain a much more modest 10 to 20 species.
Determine the types of trees found in the forest. While temperate deciduous forests contain both broadleaf and needled trees, needled trees form the largest portion of the tree population. In contrast, tropical rain forests do not normally contain needled trees.
Consider the types of epiphytes found in the forest. Tropical rain forests contain a multitude of orchids and bromeliads, while temperate deciduous forests are populated primarily by mosses and ferns.
Determine the decomposition rate of the forest. Temperate deciduous forests typically have a slow to moderate decomposition rate in comparison to the quick decomposition rate of a tropical rain forest.