There were mosses, figs, bromeliads, begonias, orchids and some lichens. These epiphytes were infinitely more abundant than the lichens on the bark of the maples I had examined on Superior's shore. In their abundance they formed aerial gardens where, I am told, resides much of the biodiversity of the rainforest. T raditionally, epiphytes are considered a hallmark of the rainforest. High humidity, a nearly year-round presence of rain or condensation drip, coupled with the tropical warmth favor the profligation of this life style.
Life survives by seizing the opportunity to exploit needed resources.
Where resources are abundant, life is lavish. Where resources are limited, life is sparse. T he fabric of life is woven according to this dictum. The weaving is more intricate in the rainforest, less so in the temperate, but the final pattern is the same. One who, by Wisconsin standards, was raised on steroids.