Flora & Fauna

The Amazon is home to an estimated 40,000 plant species, including 16,000 tree species. Iconic plants include the giant water lily, rubber tree, Brazil nut tree, and countless medicinal plants. The forest canopy creates multiple layers, each supporting different ecosystems.

Over 400 mammal species inhabit the Amazon, including jaguars, sloths, capybaras, river dolphins, and various monkey species. Many are endemic, meaning they exist nowhere else on Earth.

With over 1,300 bird species, the Amazon hosts one-third of all bird species in South America. Notable species include macaws, toucans, harpy eagles, and hummingbirds. Many birds play crucial roles in seed dispersal and pollination.

The region contains over 400 reptile species and 400 amphibian species, including anacondas, caimans, poison dart frogs, and various turtle species. Many amphibians are highly sensitive to environmental changes.

Insects represent the most diverse group, with estimates of 2.5 million species. This includes countless butterflies, beetles, ants, and other invertebrates that form the foundation of the food web.

The Amazon's rivers and flooded forests support over 3,000 fish species, including piranhas, electric eels, and the massive arapaima. Many fish species migrate seasonally with the flood cycles.