why amazon basin is ecologically so important?
http://www.google.com/webhp?rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS379US379&sourceid=chrome-instant&ix=seb&ie=UTF-8&ion=1#hl=en&rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS379US379&output=search&sclient=psy-ab&q=significance%20amazon%20basin&pbx=1&oq=&aq=&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=&gs_upl=&fp=82fc1a7cbf0487f4&ix=seb&ion=1&ix=seb&ion=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=7b70992d0fa1f225&biw=1344&bih=613&ix=seb&ion=1
Read lots of these articles and take good notes. Let us know what you discover.
Why is the Amazon basin ecologically so important
The Amazon Basin is ecologically important for several reasons. It harbors the largest tropical rainforest in the world, covering approximately 40% of South America and crossing nine countries. Here's why it is considered a critical ecological zone:
1. Biodiversity: The Amazon rainforest is home to an astonishing array of plant and animal species, including many that are found nowhere else on Earth. It is estimated that the region contains around 10% of the world's known species. This vast biodiversity makes it a global hotspot for conservation and scientific research.
To understand the ecological importance of the Amazon Basin, you can follow these steps:
1. Research the biodiversity of the region, looking for information on the number of species, unique species, and their ecological roles.
2. Study the concept of a biodiversity hotspot, which explains why areas like the Amazon Basin are crucial for global conservation efforts.
3. Explore case studies and scientific publications that illustrate the ecological significance of the Amazon Basin's biodiversity.
2. Carbon Sink: The Amazon rainforest acts as a vital carbon sink, meaning it absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. The trees in the rainforest store carbon in their biomass and the soil, playing a crucial role in regulating global climate patterns.
To understand why the Amazon Basin is an important carbon sink, you can follow these steps:
1. Learn about the concept of a carbon sink and how forests sequester carbon dioxide.
2. Research the carbon storage capacity of the Amazon rainforest and its contribution to global carbon balance.
3. Explore the impact of deforestation in the Amazon Basin on carbon emissions and climate change.
3. Water Cycle: The Amazon Basin plays a vital role in the regional and global water cycle. The rainforest's dense vegetation and high rainfall contribute to the formation of hydrological systems, including rivers and streams. This network of waterways helps to regulate rainfall patterns, maintain local and regional climates, and sustain the water supply for millions of people living both within and beyond the Basin.
To understand the role of the Amazon Basin in the water cycle, you can follow these steps:
1. Study the concept of the water cycle and the importance of forests in regulating rainfall.
2. Research the hydrological systems within the Amazon Basin, including the Amazon River and its tributaries.
3. Learn about the connection between deforestation and changes in regional and global rainfall patterns.
By following these steps and conducting further research on each aspect, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of why the Amazon Basin is ecologically important.