Ecological Region

The Leeward Islands Moist Forests: A Vibrant Tapestry of Island Ecosystems

The Leeward Islands moist forests ecoregion is captivating and diverse. It spans the northern islands of the Lesser Antilles chain in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The ecoregion within this vibrant island arc is characterized by rugged, volcanic mountains cloaked in lush tropical forests—a testament to the resilience and richness of island ecosystems. The ecoregion showcases the remarkable diversity that can thrive within these isolated yet interconnected Caribbean islands.

The Leeward Islands Xeric Scrub: A Resilient Ecosystem

Stretching across the northern reaches of the Lesser Antilles, the Leeward Islands Xeric Scrub Ecoregion encompasses a diverse array of dry, non-forested habitats on the peripheries of these sun-drenched islands. From the sandy shores to the arid savannas, this ecoregion supports a resilient community of plants and animals adapted to the region's semi-arid conditions and the impacts of human land use over centuries.

The Lush and Biodiverse Western Ecuador Moist Forests

Nestled along the western slopes of the Andes Mountains in Ecuador lies a captivating ecoregion known as the Western Ecuador Moist Forests. This expansive, verdant landscape stretches from the Colombian border in the north to the Guayas River basin in the south. The ecoregion is part of the Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena biodiversity hotspot, one of Earth's most species-rich yet threatened regions.

The Magdalena-Urabá Moist Forests: A Biodiversity Treasure of Colombia

Nestled along the Caribbean coast of northern Colombia, the Magdalena-Urabá moist forests ecoregion is a remarkable and diverse ecosystem that is part of the more significant Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena biodiversity hotspot. This lush and verdant region, stretching from the Magdalena River valley to the Gulf of Urabá, is a testament to Colombia's incredible natural wealth, offering a glimpse into the country's rich biological heritage.

The Northern Andean Páramo: A High-Altitude Sanctuary of Biodiversity

Soaring high above Colombia and Ecuador's cloud forests and montane landscapes, the Northern Andean páramo is a truly remarkable and unique ecoregion. This vast expanse of high-altitude grasslands, wetlands, and shrublands is a vital component of the Andes ecosystem and a global biodiversity hotspot teeming with an array of specialized plant and animal life found nowhere else on Earth.

The Paraná Flooded Savanna: Guardian of the Flooded Realm

The Paraná Flooded Savanna ecoregion is a vast area that spans across the floodplains of the middle and lower Paraná River, along with its tributary, the Paraguay River. This region is home to diverse flora and fauna, crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in Argentina and Paraguay. This region's intricate network of waterways and lush marshlands provides a secure habitat for countless plant and animal species.

The Patagonian Grasslands: Guardians of the Windswept Plains

The Patagonian Grasslands ecoregion is situated in the southern part of Argentina. It is an example of nature's resilience in challenging conditions. This area falls under the biome of temperate grasslands, savannas, and shrublands, which spans across the Neotropical realm. The region is a testament to the stunning beauty and biodiversity of the southern landscapes of Argentina.

The Patía Valley Dry Forests: A Unique and Threatened Ecosystem in Colombia

Nestled within the rugged Andes Mountains of southwestern Colombia lies a remarkable and often overlooked ecoregion known as the Patía Valley dry forests. In the rain shadow of the towering Andes, this arid landscape stands in stark contrast to the lush, verdant forests that characterize much of the surrounding region. This creates a unique and fragile ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of specialized plant and animal life.

The Resilient Dry Forests of Trinidad and Tobago

Tucked away in the southernmost reaches of the Caribbean archipelago, the islands of Trinidad and Tobago are home to diverse ecosystems, including a unique ecoregion known as the Trinidad and Tobago Dry Forests. While occupying only a small portion of the nation's total land area, these sun-drenched, deciduous woodlands found in the northwest region of Trinidad and the northernmost tip of Tobago play a vital role in the islands' overall ecological tapestry.

The Sechura and Nazca Deserts: Exploring Peru's Desert Wonders

Peru is a country with diverse landscapes and natural wonders. It has two contrasting yet equally captivating deserts along its western coastline—the Sechura and Nazca Deserts. The relentless forces of nature have shaped these arid expanses and stand as testaments to the resilience of life in extreme environments. They offer a unique blend of geological marvels and biodiversity.