The rainforest has many long stems hanging down from higher branches. These are called lianas.
The stems are mostly climbing vines (with roots in the soil) that are using the tree for support. Stems can be hundreds of metres long. They use sucker roots and wind themselves round tree trunks.
When they reach the top of the canopy they often spread to other trees, and this is when they look like looping 'ropes'. Lianas often use other lianas for support, too.
