Tropical rainforests are typically dominated by different plants and animals at different levels. The top layer is the "emergent" layer. Then there is the "canopy" layer. Under the tall canopy is the "understory". The understory is made up of smaller trees, vines and shrubs. The next layer is called the shrub layer, and has mainly bushes. The bottom layer is the" forest floor". This is made up of the small plants on the ground.