Amazon River

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Amazonas und Reliefkarte

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Brazil, the Amazons and the coast (1879) (14780994814)

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Amazon CIAT (2)

The Marañon or Amazon River with the Mission of the Society of Jesus WDL1137

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Naturalist on the River Amazons figure 38

Amazon River

The Amazon River is one of the largest and most significant rivers in the world, flowing primarily through Brazil and also traversing parts of Peru, Colombia, and several other South American countries. It is renowned for its vast drainage basin, which is the largest in the world, and for the incredibly diverse ecosystems it supports, including the Amazon Rainforest, one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet.

Course

The Amazon River originates from the Andes mountains in Peru, where its primary source is generally considered to be the Apacheta creek in the Nevado Mismi mountain. It then flows eastward, crossing the entire continent of South America, and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The river's mouth is so wide that it can release a vast amount of water, up to 300,000 cubic meters per second, into the ocean, significantly affecting the salinity and currents of the Atlantic near its delta.

Tributaries

The Amazon has thousands of tributaries, with the Marañón River and the Ucayali River being among its primary tributaries in Peru. The Madeira River, Tapajós River, Xingu River, and Negro River are among its largest tributaries in Brazil. These tributaries are essential for the drainage of the Amazon Basin, covering an area of approximately 7,000,000 square kilometers, which is roughly equivalent to the size of the contiguous United States.

Biodiversity

The Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest are home to an unparalleled variety of life. It is estimated that one-tenth of all known species on Earth live in the Amazon Rainforest. This includes over 2,000 species of fish, hundreds of reptiles, and a vast number of birds and mammals. The river itself is home to unique aquatic species such as the Amazon river dolphin, the piranha, and the Arapaima, one of the world's largest freshwater fish.

Environmental Concerns

The Amazon River and its rainforest are facing significant environmental threats, including deforestation, illegal mining, and pollution. These activities not only threaten the diverse ecosystems but also contribute to global climate change by reducing the Earth's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. Conservation efforts are ongoing, with various international and local organizations working to protect and preserve the Amazon for future generations.

Cultural Significance

The Amazon has been home to indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with many relying on its resources for their livelihoods. It also plays a crucial role in the cultural identity of South America and has been the subject of extensive exploration and study by scientists and adventurers from around the world.

Economic Importance

The Amazon River is vital for the economy of the region, supporting activities such as fishing, agriculture, and transportation. It also has significant potential for hydroelectric power generation, although this is often controversial due to the environmental impact on the river and its ecosystems.