Amazon jungle | আমাজন জঙ্গল

 Amazon jungle

Amazon jungle 

Amazon jungle: lung of earth and treasure of biodiversity

The Amazon Jungle (as well as the Amazon Rainforest) is one of the most important and largest biomes on Earth, covering 9 countries: Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. The vast Amazon rainforest (more than 5. 5 million square kilometers) is known as the “Lungs of the Earth” for its production of massive quantities of oxygen and for absorption of carbon dioxide, wherein it serves as an important feedback mechanism in controlling global climate.

A Paradise of Biodiversity

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the world's major areas of biodiversity, accounting for approximately 390 billion trees and in excess of 16, 000 species. More than 10% of all known species on the planet occur in or around the Amazon. Some of the most notable animals in the Amazon are:-

• Mammals - Jaguars, pumas, tapirs, wild boars, otters and different species of monkeys.
• Birds: - Toucans, macaws, harpy eagles and all kinds of colorful parrots.
• Reptiles:- Anacondas, caimans, iguanas, and venomous snakes.
• Amphibians:- Poison dart frogs, salamanders, and many species of frogs.
• Aquatic Animals:- Piranhas, pink dolphins, catfish, and various species of turtles.

In addition, there are thought to be as many as 30 million unknown species in the Amazon and new ones are discovered on a regular basis.

Indigenous Communities and Their Way of Life

In addition to its natural beauty and many types of animals, the Amazon is also home to many indigenous peoples. There are more than 400 indigenous tribes in the rainforest. There are different languages and cultures within these indigenous communities. Some tribes never met anyone outside the forest and survive on what the forest provides. They practice sustainable agriculture, fishing and hunting methods.

Environmental Importance of the Amazon              The Amazon is one of the major carbon sinks in the Earth's climate and environment. One of its contributions is:-

• Carbon Dioxide Absorption - The forest absorbs a lot of CO2 that 'll help prevent global warming.
• Oxygen Production - The Amazon produces about 20% of the world 's oxygen.
• Rainfall regulation - The dense vegetation releases moisture into the atmosphere and thus impacts rainfall in South America as well as elsewhere.

Major Threats to the Amazon                                 Several serious threats to the Amazon Rainforest are brought on by human activities:-

1. Deforestation:- Deforestation is by far the biggest threat to the Amazon rainforest: huge swathes of forest are cleared each year for expansion of agricultural areas, cattle ranching, and illegal logging.
2. Wildfires:- Many fires do happen in the Amazon, many of these are set deliberately to burn cropland, cutting down huge swaths of forest and putting the lives of many animals at risk.
3. Mining Activities and Poaching:-  Mining activity in particular for gold has caused massive forest destruction, and illegal poaching also poses a threat to local wildlife.

Conservation Efforts.                                  Governments and organizations are undertaking various initiatives to protect the Amazon. Key efforts include:-

Protected Areas and National Parks (- Many countries have proclaimed large parts of the Amazon as protected areas).

• Sustainable Forest Management: - Incentives for measures such as responsible logging and reforestation.
• Protection of Indigenous Rights: - Policies have been put in place to safeguard indigenous people’s land rights and their cultural heritage.
• Global awareness campaigns: - Organizations from all over the world are trying to bring people's attention to the need to protect the Amazon.

Conclusion                                                                       The Amazon is truly a unique environmental treasure. It is not only the largest source of the Earth’s oxygen but also the home for millions of species, a temperature stabilizer and an excellent host for many different kinds of birds. But today this magnificent forest is in great danger and the future of its existence is in danger. That’s why we have a duty to bring awareness of the importance of protecting the Amazon and to contribute to the conservation work that must be done – so that this wonderful forest will still flourish over generations to come.