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 lthough human activity has left its mark,
most of the Orinoco River is still one of the few pristine ecosystems
on the planet. In the Orinoco there are so many types of animal
and plant life that species are still being discovered every
day. Scientists know of about 250 mammal species, 1,300 types
of birds, 1,000 types of fish, 10,000 types of flowering plants,
and hundreds of thousands of insect species. This variety of
life forms is called biodiversity.
Biodiversity is essential for life to exist on the planet.
It helps habitats stay healthy and be able to adapt to new situations.
Biodiversity is also important to humans. We get all of our food
and many medicines from plants and animals that depend on other
species to survive.
Habitat diversity is just as important as biodiversity. A
habitat is the food, water, shelter and space that life needs
to survive. In the Orinoco Valley many different types of habitats
flow together to form a patchwork quilt of landscapes: mountains,
flood plains, tropical forests and wetlands. Each area has unique
qualities and supports its own life forms.
Humans have relied on the Orinoco for its rich resources.
They have built dams and mines, and polluted the river as a result
of industrial activity. Today, governments and industry leaders
are seeking new ways of working in harmony with the environment.
Dozens of parks, natural preserves and wildlife refuges have
been established to protect the area. However, much work remains
to be done.
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Lesson plans
Online resources
Book List
Virtual tour: Biodiversity
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