Amazon River, South America

Río Amazonas, Sudamérica is a majestic and awe-inspiring location that stretches across nine countries in South America, covering an impressive 6.8 million square kilometers. This incredible waterway is the largest river in the world by discharge volume, accounting for approximately 15% of the fresh water that flows into the oceans. The Amazon River is a vital component of the Amazon rainforest ecosystem, supporting an astonishing array of plant and animal species, many of which can be found nowhere else on the planet. As one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest are home to an estimated 10% of all known plant and animal species. The river's vast watershed is characterized by its slow-moving waters, which create a unique environment that is perfect for the growth of aquatic plants and the development of complex ecosystems. The Amazon River has played a significant role in the development of human civilization, providing a source of food, transportation, and spiritual sustenance for indigenous communities for thousands of years. Today, the Amazon River remains an important economic and cultural hub, with many communities relying on its resources for their livelihood.