Peru's Tropical Rainforests

A Look at Global Warming from the Peruvian Andes

September 17, 2013 | WFDD

Justin Catanoso

A team of biologists begin their hike down into the Amazon basin from 13,000 feet in Manu National Park in southern Peru. Image by Justin Catanoso. Peru, 2013.

A trio of biologists with their heavy packs in their jungle study field. Image by Justin Catanoso. Peru, 2013. [A trio of biologists saddled with heavy packs stand in their jungle study field. —KD]

In a series of research plots that start at roughly 12,000 feet elevation and go down into the lowlands, biologists closely track tree growth and reproduction to assess the impact of rising temperatures. Image by Justin Catanoso. Peru, 2013.

When it comes to global warming, it’s easy to assume that the greatest impact is on our coldest climates, where we can see the polar ice caps melting before our eyes. But research coming out of Wake Forest University and elsewhere is establishing that the impact of rising temperatures could be even more dramatic in warmer climates, like the tropical forests that ring the center of the Earth. WFDD contributor Justin Catanoso recently spent more than two weeks with tropical biologists hiking through the jungles and rain forests of southern Peru. To listen to the full interview, visit WFDD's website.