I too have read about the higher than expected levels of nutrients in
the soils of tropical rainforests. Problem is the soils beneath the
rainforests are mainly lateritic and therefore among the most highly
leached in the world. Nutrients will remain bound and in place in these
soils only as long as the ecosystems remain intact. Remove the
rainforest; and it is almost impossible to maintain any soil fertility.
Dr. Carole DeMort, ecologist, UNF, Florida
