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Madagascar rain forest forms one of the chief ecosystems of the island. Home to a wide variety of Madagascar plants and animals, the rain forest of the island nation is also a major tourist attraction. The lush green rain forest of Madagascar is however only existent in a narrow strip in the eastern part of the island.
With the inclusion of Madagascar rain forest in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, the area has gained significance. The high temperatures and huge amount of rainfall make up ideal climatic conditions for the growth and development of the rain forest in Madagascar.
The flora of Madagascar rain forest can be categorized into five specific layers. The overstory consists of the tall trees towering over the canopy. The canopy of Madagascar rain forest forms a dense foliage over the whole area. The understory is the trees and plants that grow just below the canopy. The shrubs growing in the rain forest of Madagascar make up the shrub layer. The forest floor is covered with moss and fallen leaves.
The rain forest of Madagascar is home to a number of animal and bird species. Most of the animals of the island of Madagascar live in the canopy layer of the rain forest. The different trees of the rain forests of Madagascar are generally evergreen in nature. The small shrubs and flowers also form important ingredients for local medicines.
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