Notable Canopy Tree Adaptations

• Bark: Thin, often smooth bark, since trees do not have to deal with cold weather. The smooth bark reduces root holds for epiphytes and allows rapid water run off.
• Root Systems: Shallow since rainforest nutrients exist in only the upper few inches of soil.
• Leaves: Lower level leaves are equipped with drip tips to facilitate water run off and prevent epiphytes from gaining hold.
• Cauliflourous fruits: production of fruits and flowers directly from tree trunks.