The Tropics Cause Abundant Life and Broken Hearts
In The Tropics Cause Abundant Life and Broken Hearts, narrator Sir David Attenborough explains how constant direct sunlight allows plant and animal life to flourish. A male bird of paradise takes elaborate steps to attract a mate but is ultimately rejected. This video is excerpted from BBC's Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
Lesson Express
Q: Why do 50% of all Earth’s plants and animals live on 3% of its surface?
A: The constant strength of the Sun’s rays striking head-on all year long allows for vigorous plant growth, which supports animals.
Q: How does the forest floor compare with the canopy in the tropical forest?
A: Both have a great variety of life; the floor is darker and damper, with different types of animals and plants.
Q: What behaviors does the male bird of paradise engage in to attract a female?
A: It cleans its display area; it fluffs up its feathers and prances around; it calls out.
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In How Dolphins Hunt in Shallow Water, narrator Sir David Attenborough explains that shallow water is no problem for smart and skilled bottlenose dolphins. See the many strategies they have for hunting fish in just centimeters of water. This video is excerpted from BBC's Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
In How Dolphins Hunt in Shallow Water, narrator Sir David Attenborough explains that shallow water is no problem for smart and skilled bottlenose dolphins. See the many strategies they have for hunting fish in just centimeters of water. This video is excerpted from BBC's Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.