E176: Who lives in the rainforest canopy? [SJK Audio Edition]

Read this article at: https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/articles/who-lives-in-the-rainforest-canopy/ or watch at: https://youtu.be/EkO0cYJbMOUSummary: Researchers developed a new eDNA collection system to look at biodiversity in tropical rainforests.Abstract: Can you list all the animals that live at the top of rainforest trees? You might have seen pictures of birds or monkeys living in the rainforest canopy. The tropical rainforest is very biodiverse. But researchers still don’t know about everything that lives there.We wanted to test a new way of finding out what lives in the rainforest canopy. We set up collectors that catch rainwater as it falls down from the trees. We studied environmental DNA from the water to look at biodiversity. We found that hundreds of different organisms live in the rainforest canopy. There is also more biodiversity in areas that are not disturbed by humans. So, the environmental DNA gathered in rainwash is very important. This method can help people learn more about the rainforest ecosystem and conserve its biodiversity.You are one of half a million educators in the U.S. who use our articles and videos in class. All our content is FREE, no paywalls, no need to subscribe. But recent federal cuts have made it hard for us to win grants to fund our mission. We are a small non-profit, and without support, we may not make it.If you enjoy our content, please consider donating - https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/support-us.html This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sciencejournalforkids.substack.com