Introduction

The Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical forest in the world, covering more than 5.5 million square kilometers across nine countries in South America. These nations are Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana (territory of France). Together, they form the Amazon Basin, which plays a crucial role in global climate, biodiversity, and human culture.

The Amazon is often described as the “lungs of the Earth” because it produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen. It is home to over 390 billion trees, 16,000 plant species, 2.5 million insects, and thousands of animal species, making it one of the richest ecosystems on the planet.

Geography of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Basin spreads across nine countries. Brazil holds the largest portion, followed by Peru and Colombia. The rainforest is traversed by the Amazon River, the second-longest river in the world, which flows more than 6,400 km and has more than 1,100 tributaries.

Amazon Rainforest Countries

Brazil

Brazil contains about 60% of the Amazon Rainforest, making it the most significant country in the region. Cities like Manaus and Belém serve as gateways to the forest. The Brazilian Amazon is a center for biodiversity, indigenous cultures, and global environmental research.

Peru

Peru holds the second-largest share of the Amazon, about 13% of the forest. The region includes the city of Iquitos, the largest urban area in the Peruvian Amazon. Peru’s Amazon is home to diverse wildlife, including jaguars, pink river dolphins, and giant river otters.

Colombia

Colombia covers around 10% of the Amazon. The region is sparsely populated but rich in indigenous communities. The Colombian Amazon is important for its rivers and natural reserves, such as Amacayacu National Park.

Venezuela

The Venezuelan Amazon lies in the state of Amazonas, where tropical forests meet tepui plateaus. It includes rivers such as the Orinoco Basin and is known for unique biodiversity.

Ecuador

Ecuador’s Amazon, called the Oriente, makes up about 40% of the country’s territory. It is home to indigenous groups such as the Huaorani and Shuar, along with Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth.

Bolivia

Bolivia contains a large portion of lowland Amazon forests. The region supports both indigenous communities and rich wildlife. Protected areas like Madidi National Park are considered hotspots of global biodiversity.

Guyana

Guyana’s Amazon area is dominated by dense tropical forests and rivers. It is one of the least disturbed areas of the Amazon Basin, important for carbon storage and wildlife conservation.

Suriname

Suriname is covered mostly by tropical rainforest, with a significant Amazonian share. Its forests are among the most intact in South America, supporting jaguars, tapirs, and countless bird species.

French Guiana

Though small, French Guiana (an overseas territory of France) is fully covered by Amazon rainforest. The region is known for its strict environmental protections and scientific research stations.

Cultural Importance of the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon is home to over 400 indigenous tribes, many of whom still maintain traditional lifestyles. Languages, rituals, and knowledge of medicinal plants remain strong in these communities.

Economic Importance of the Amazon Basin

• Forestry and Resources – The forest provides timber, rubber, and medicinal plants.
• Agriculture – Regions near the Amazon are used for farming, though deforestation is a major issue.
• Tourism – Ecotourism is growing, with travelers visiting rivers, forests, and indigenous villages.
• Global Climate Regulation – The Amazon absorbs massive amounts of carbon dioxide, reducing climate change effects.

Environmental Challenges

• Deforestation caused by logging, mining, and farming.
• Climate Change leading to higher temperatures and drought.
• Biodiversity Loss due to habitat destruction.
• Threats to Indigenous Communities from industrial projects.

International efforts such as the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) aim to coordinate protection across the nine countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many countries does the Amazon Rainforest cover?
Nine: Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.

Which country has the largest share of the Amazon Rainforest?
Brazil, with about 60% of the total area.

Why is the Amazon called the “lungs of the Earth”?
Because it produces about 20% of the planet’s oxygen through photosynthesis.

What is the biggest threat to the Amazon?
Deforestation caused by logging, mining, agriculture, and climate change.

Is the Amazon Rainforest protected?
Yes, through national parks, indigenous reserves, and international agreements, though enforcement remains a challenge.