Originally believed to help support the tree, now it is believed that the buttresses channel stem flow and its dissolved nutrients to the roots. Large leaves are common among trees of the C layer. Young individuals of trees destined for the B and A layers may also have large trees. When the reach the canopy new leaves will be smaller. The large leaf surface helps intercept light in the sun-dappled lower strata of the forest.
Drip tips facilitate drainage of precipitation off the leaf to promote transpiration.
Other characteristics that distinguish tropical species of trees from those of temperate forests include Exceptionally thin bark , often only 1-2 mm thick. Usually very smooth, although sometimes armed with spines or thorns. Large fleshy fruits attract birds, mammals, and even fish as dispersal agents. Oxisols , infertile, deeply weathered and severely leached, have developed on the ancient Gondwanan shields. Rapid bacterial decay prevents the accumulation of humus.