REGUA’s wetlands © REGUA

Morning mist above restored wetlands © REGUA

Guira Cuckoos perched near wetlands © REGUA

June 13, 2014

For some, the words “Atlantic Rainforest” conjure images of a dense, steaming jungle stretching beyond the horizon. The rainforest, which lies along Brazil’s Atlantic seaboard, has even been labeled a “green hell.” In fact, it is a spectacular landscape filled with unique micro-habitats.

Composed of varied forests and rich wildlife, the Atlantic Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. Although often overshadowed by its neighbor to the west, the Amazon Rainforest, this rainforest is actually home to more biodiversity.

However, its coastal location has carried a heavy price. Easy access has led to widespread destruction by fire and axe. Lowland areas have been drained and forests cut, making way for farmland, roads and countless towns. As a result, the forest now covers only approximately 7% of its former range.

Wetlands were once one of the most important habitats found in the Atlantic Rainforest. These areas were often lined with Tabebuia Cassinoides, a climax tree species that thrived in wet conditions. The small but sturdy tree provided a base for thousands of epiphytes, both orchids and bromeliads, in need of a stout tree limbs upon which to grow.

Wetlands also sustained surrounding plant life during spells of dry weather as prevailing winds carried their moisture into adjacent forests.

But over time, marshes in the region were systematically drained and their trees cut down. Today, they are virtually extinct in the landscape.

Rainforest Trust’s Brazilian partner REGUA is restoring wetlands and other important ecological elements of the Atlantic Rainforest. In 2005, extensive retaining walls and a concrete spillway were constructed at the REGUA reserve as part of an effort to recreate former wetlands. The resulting 30-acre marsh has matured quickly and is now home to Caiman, Capybara and a wide variety of wetland bird species, as well as fish and amphibians.

It will be many years before some of the orchids and bromeliads that once draped wetland trees can be reintroduced, but a promising start has been made to reestablish this extremely rare and special habitat.

Learn more about REGUA and Rainforest Trust’s efforts to expand this critical wildlife reserve.

Story courtesy of REGUA