The Amazon Rainforest is home to the largest biodiversity on the planet. Until recently, there were 1,294 bird species, 427 mammals, 378 reptiles, 3,000 fish and 400 amphibians, over 100,000 invertebrates and 40,000 plant species. On September 30 this year, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Report announced the discovery of 381 new species in the forest, including 216 new plants, 93 fish, 32 amphibians, 19 reptiles, one bird, 18 mammals and two fossil mammals.
The 6.7 million hectare region has diverse environments and characteristics distinct from other forests in the world. This diversity is directly related to climate, relief and vegetation that together give rise to an extensive and diverse ecosystem. Because it has the largest biodiversity in the world, the Amazon is home to many endemic species not found elsewhere.
The fauna
The forest is home to approximately 20% of all species of the planet’s fauna. Recent findings indicate that about a new species of living being was discovered every two days. In the endemic fauna, it is possible to highlight some animals such as the pink dolphin, the rooster, the killer turtle, the leaf frog and the discus.
The pink dolphin is considered the largest freshwater dolphin in the world. It can reach 2.5 meters in length and weigh 160 pounds. There is no accurate survey of the current porpoise population, but it is estimated that it has declined in recent years because of hunting.
The Guianan rooster-of-the-rock is one of the most spectacular birds on our continent. Hard to see, it has its colorful plumage and the females’ procession attracts admirers and observers from all over the world.
The Vinha Robber Frog measures about 20 millimeters and reproduces during the rainy season from November to May. The species also has small greenish granules, noticeable only with magnifying glass.
Amazonian rivers account for 85% of South American fish species. In the Rio Negro alone, 450 species have been cataloged, including the discus, an exclusive freshwater fish that does not tolerate polluted environments.
