There are 4 layers in the rainforest; the Forest Floor, under canopy, canopy and emergent layer.
Layer 1: The emergents The emergents are the tallest trees in the forest. They reach up to 60m above ground and each treetop is the size of a soccer pitch. Because they are so tall they have to take a battering from the wind and lightning, therefore they start to sway. They are held in place by buttress roots wich are incredibly large (see plant adaptations)
Layer 3: Under Canopy/Storey This layer is composed of small trees, spindly palma and saplings. These trees grow in gaps that are created when an old tree dies or a storm blows larger trees over. The death or destruction of other larger trees give the sapli8ngs a chance to get some sunlight and prehaps grow into the old trees space. The trees are about 15m high and covered in vines and creepers.
Layer 2: the canopy it is similar to a huge green umbrella that is sometimes 6 m thick- composed entirely of treetop and other plant matter. It is very warm and the conditions make a perfect home for two thirds of all plants and animals living in the rainforest.
Layer 4: Shrub Layer/Forest Floor The shrub layer is very dark and gloomy as not much light manages to filter through the canopy- and even less through the under canopy. Very little grows down here as plants struggle to photosythesise and the floor is often flooded. Mosses, fungis and ferns are the main inhabitants of the forest floor. there are certain plants that have adapted to living in the low-light conditions. Centipedes, millipedes, snakes and other insects and bugs are the only long term inhabitants.