Overview
A cloud forest, also called a water forest, primas forest, or tropical montane cloud forest, is a generally tropical or subtropical, evergreen, montane, moist forest characterized by a persistent, frequent or seasonal low-level cloud cover, usually at the canopy level, formally described in the International Cloud Atlas (2017) as silvagenitus. Cloud forests often exhibit an abundance of mosses covering the ground and vegetation, in which case they are also referred to as mossy forests. Mossy forests usually develop on the saddles of mountains, where moisture introduced by settling clouds is more effectively retained. This ecosystem is rare globally, but its natural beauty, moderate climate, and easy accessibility makes it highly attractive for tourism. The presence and history of colonial hill stations, and the allure of ecotourism and adventure travel, have also contributed to a degree of romanticization.