Brazil: a Breathtaking Diversity

By: O. Astor

Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world. It makes up 6.28% of all land mass. It is unquestionably vast, however, what I wanted to write about today, is what I believe makes Brazil so special, and stand out so much. So, let me start again. 
Brazil is the largest country in the world concerning biodiversity. It makes up an estimated 15 – 20% of the world's biological diversity and is home to a breathtaking 70% of all catalogued animal and plant species – an impressive claim. This means over 46,000 plant species, 1,800 bird species, 3,000 species of fish, over 500 identified amphibians, and a mind boggling estimated 90,000 species of insects.  
But why is this? Well, no doubt most people would argue a large factor is the Amazon, the largest tropical rainforest in the world. However, one of the real reasons, is Brazil’s wide variety of habitats. From Brazil’s jutting “Pico da Neblina” in the Amazon or Mantiqueria mountains in Minas Gerais to the parched savannah’s (Cerrado) or flooded Pantanal, Brazil has something for everyone. Let’s go through what makes Brazil so special. 
The caatinga is a biome located in the northeast that is unique to Brazil. Its lands are characterized by low humidity and rainfall and a generally dry climate. Short, thorny plants low growing to the ground scatter the spiked landscape. This biome is rich in fruit – especially passionfruit! The Caatinga also is home to many medicinal herbs – like the mulungu, which helps combat the effects of insomnia with its sedative qualities. The many fruits and flowers attract over 200 species of bee, which produce honey appreciated all over the world. The caatinga also attracts species unique to its qualities, such as Lear’s macaw, puma’s, boa constrictors, and many, many lizards.  
The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland area and is home to many species unique to its ecosystem. The many rivers flood and overflow during the summer rains, causing a bloom of marshes and swamps to fill the floodplains. Many medicinal herbs, honey, and organic cattle raised by indigenous families are found there, resulting in one of Brazil’s largest beef producers. Caiman, jaguars, and capybaras prowl the river edges, while the cobalt blue macaw (the world’s largest parrot) flitter in the sky.  
When people think of Brazil’s forest, they would typically think of the Amazon, however the Atlantic Forest is just as important. The Atlantic Forest, known to us as the ‘Mata Atlantica’ occupies much of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Just one hectare of the Atlantic Forest can support 450 species of trees! It’s characterized by thick, lush vegetation and layered canopies that stretch in a green blanket across the sky. Mangroves and salt marshes can be found there too, much like the Amazon. Jaguars, sloths, and 900 bird species can be seen. And yet, despite this incredible ecosystem, only 12% of the original forest is left standing.  
These fragile ecosystems make Brazil what it is, contributing to its colour and life and diversity. They give us tourism, materials, and beauty. No other country has more biomes than Brazil.  
However, this diversity is fast disappearing. We are all aware of the threat our society poses to the environment, and yet I hope this article makes you appreciate, or even acknowledge, the beauty and distinctiveness that lives right here on our doorstep. ​