The emergent layer is the toprnost layer of the rainforest. These are the trees that pierce the canopy often rising to 45 metres or more.

The Kapok is our example of a tree which may reach the emergent layer. Notice how the leaves differ from those found in the layers lower down.

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The Bo Tree, found in the canopy, offers a comparison. The leaves of this tree have long pointed ends called drip tips which are typical of the canopy, these enable the leaves to shed water rapidly. Look out for these and other leaf features such as central water channels and waxy and quilted surfaces; all aids to water loss. Look carefully at the base of this tree where you can see small buttress roots. These give the tree extra anchorage in the thin layer of rainforest soil. The Bo tree is said to have given shade to the Buddha, hence its name Ficus religiosa.

Look carefully at the leaves of our Banyan Tree and find clues (by comparing them with those of the Bo Tree) that will indicate that it is not a true rainforest tree. This tree, however, does exhibit one interesting rainforest feature. In India individual trees can cover large areas because of their ability to send out branches which grow prop roots. On our banyan these can be seen at various stages of development and can grow to be as thick as the trunk. Like the buttress roots mentioned earlier they give extra anchorage and without these prop roots its canopy would be very unstable.

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