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Aboitic Factors in Temperate Rain Forest

Temperate rain forests are bursting with life and energy. From their rich soil to the vibrant plants, trees and animals that comprise much of the forest, temperate rain forests conjure up images of plant and animal life in action. Yet there are also a number of abiotic factors (nonliving environmental factors) that are essential to temperate rain forests. While these elements are not alive, without them the forests as they are known could not exist.

Sunlight
- Sunlight is an important abiotic factor in temperate rain forests.
  
  Sunlight is an important abiotic factor in temperate rain forests. Without it, much of the life that associated with these forests wouldn't exist; however, not all plants receive the same amount of sunlight. The top layer of the rain forest --- the emergent layer --- enjoys the most exposure to sunlight, since it rises above other plant life. Closer to the ground, less sunlight penetrates the forest canopy and makes it to the bottom layers of the forest.
Precipitation
- Without significant amounts of rain, temperate rain forests could not exist.
  
  Temperate rain forests receive a great deal of water --- in fact, this is where the name "rain forest" comes from. These forests receive at least 60 inches of rain annually, and up to 200 inches in certain warmer areas. This abiotic factor is essential in providing the water that vegetation requires to survive and thrive.
Climate
- Temperate rain forests enjoy warmer temperatures influenced heavily by their proximity to the ocean. The ocean has a moderating effect on temperature, ensuring the temperature does not get too cold, thus allowing temperate rain forests to flourish year-round. Some temperate rain forests have annual temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius.

Nature