Rainforests can be found mainly in the low latitude zone, specifically between about 30° north and 30° south of the Equator. Tropical rainforests are typically located between about 10° north and 10° south of the Equator, within the tropics between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. Temperate rainforests, which are less common, are found in cooler, higher latitude coastal regions further from the equator.
Summary of Latitude Zones for Rainforests
- Tropical Rainforests: Between approximately 10°N and 10°S latitude, in the tropics near the Equator.
- Wider Tropical Zone: Generally between 30°N and 30°S latitude.
- Temperate Rainforests: Found in higher latitude coastal areas, such as parts of North America, Chile, and New Zealand.
These tropical rainforests thrive in warm climates with high rainfall year- round, prevalent in regions including the Amazon Basin in South America, the Congo Basin in Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia.
