The Amazon Rainforest
Easily the largest rainforest in the world, the Amazon Rainforest is shared by nine different countries over 3.4 million square miles. The ecosystem of the Amazon has been evolving over centuries and has resulted in an enormous biodiversity; it is home to thousands of species of plant, tree, mammal and fish. In addition, it is also home to many indigenous tribes, who live off the surroundings and in order to survive.
The rainforest gets its name from the river that flows through it: the Amazon River, the second longest river in the world. Astonishingly, its basin alone covers around 40% of South America. Another interesting fact is that the Amazon River produces around 20% of the water that the world's rivers pour into the ocean.
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the world's most beautiful places: the sheer amount that is unknown about this place is mind boggling. Scientists have been studying the region for decades, but still cannot claim to have accounted for every species in the rainforest. Not really surprising as more than one third of all species in the world live in Amazon Rainforest!
However in recent years, the Amazon Rainforest has been in great danger as a result of logging and forest clearing. This is seen a hugely profitable economy, although the effects of deforestation are devastating; many species have become extinct as a result. It has been said that at current rates, 55% of the Amazon could be gone 2030.
Luckily, this problem has been recognised and several charities have been set up in order to address this problem, the most famous of which is Save The Rainforest. With this company, as well as keeping deforestation an issue by raising awareness, the Amazon Rainforest might survive and evolve into the 22nd century and beyond.