Tropical rainforests exist within 28 degrees north and south of the equator. They receive high rainfall, have warm temperatures, and high humidity. Though they cover less than 6% of the Earth's land, they are home to 50% of animals and plants and produce 40% of the oxygen. The layers include the forest floor, understory, canopy, and emergent layer, each with distinct characteristics. Abiotic factors like temperature, precipitation, soil and humidity influence the forest as do biotic interactions between plants and animals. Human activities like deforestation, agriculture, mining, pollution and climate change threaten these important ecosystems.