What are the key geographical features of the Amazon Rainforest?.

The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering approximately 5.5 million square kilometers. It spans several countries, including Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, and is home to an estimated 390 billion individual trees belonging to around 16,000 different species. The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate and is known for its vast biodiversity, housing about 10% of all species on Earth. The Amazon River, one of the longest rivers globally, flows through this rainforest and is integral to its ecosystem.

Key Facts

• Area: Covers over 5.5 million square kilometers.
• Countries: Extends into Brazil (60%), Peru (13%), Colombia (10%), and several others.
• Biodiversity: Approximately 390 billion trees and 16,000 species.
• Climate Influence: Critical for global oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption.

Examples or Use Cases

• The Amazon serves as a significant carbon sink, helping mitigate climate change.
• It supports local and indigenous communities, providing resources and livelihoods.

FAQs

• Why is the Amazon Rainforest important? The Amazon is vital for global biodiversity, climate regulation, and indigenous cultures.
• What threats does the Amazon Rainforest face? Deforestation, climate change, and illegal mining are major threats.