- The Amazon rainforest, also known as the Amazonia, is the largest rainforest in the world, covering an area of approximately 5.5 million square kilometers.
- It is home to an estimated 10% of the world's known species, and plays a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate.
Terra Firme:
- Terra firme forests are the most common type of rainforest in the Amazon basin, and are found on well-drained, upland areas.
- These forests are characterized by a dense canopy of trees, with emergent trees rising above the rest.
- Terra firme forests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including many endangered species.
Várzea:
- Várzea forests are found in seasonally flooded areas along the Amazon River and its tributaries.
- These forests are characterized by tall, buttressed trees that are adapted to the flooding conditions.
- Várzea forests are home to a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial species, including many fish species that migrate from the Amazon River into the flooded forests during the wet season.
Igapó:
- Igapó forests are found in permanently flooded areas along the Amazon River and its tributaries.
- These forests are characterized by low, often stunted trees that are adapted to the constantly wet conditions.
- Igapó forests are home to a variety of specialized plant and animal species, including many species of fish and amphibians that are found nowhere else on Earth.