Atlantic Forest IN PICTURES
27.10.09
Described by Raquel Nunez, of the World Rainforest Movement, as "beautiful" but "seemingly destined to suffer in life" the Atlantic Forest of Misiones in Argentina retains one of the largest fractions of this threatened ecosystem.
All photos © Dan Ryan
Iguazu, on the triumverate of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina
is one of the largest waterfalls in the world.
Atlantic Forest is one of the world's biodiversity hotspots.
Parana Pine (Auracaria angustifolia) has been exploited for its timber.
Logging has reduced forest cover in Misiones to less than 50%.
Pindo (Syagrus romanzoffianum) - one of the most important forest species - left
standing in a logged landscape.
The indigenous Guarani have been marginalised by centuries of exploitation
and the destruction of their forest home.
While their forest existence is threatened their prospects on the outside world may
not be much better. Unemployment in the province is high and the wages low.
Lush forest has been converted for agriculture and plantations.
Scientists, conservationists, and politicians are uniting to help protect and
restore the landscape. This nursery at the University of Misiones will help
re-plant the forest.
Much beauty and life remains in Misiones. Will it be given a chance to thrive?
You can help the Atlantic Forest in Misiones through the World Land Trust.
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