What type of plant often grows on the surface of trees in the canopy layer?

Epiphytes are a specialized group of plants that grow on the surface of other plants, primarily trees, without harming them. This adaptation allows epiphytes to access sunlight and rainwater in the upper canopy layer of forests, where competition for these resources is intense. By being elevated above the ground, epiphytes can maximize their exposure to light, which is essential for photosynthesis. Common examples of epiphytes include orchids and bromeliads, which showcase the diversity and uniqueness of these plants as they have evolved to thrive in a habitat where their root systems are not anchored in soil but rather attached to other plants.

Understanding the role of epiphytes highlights their importance in forest ecosystems, where they contribute to biodiversity and provide habitats for various organisms. In contrast, lianas, ferns, and mosses have different growth strategies and ecological niches that do not primarily involve growing on the surfaces of trees in the same manner as epiphytes.