Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve

Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve

Introduction

The Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve is located in the states of Bahia and Espírito Santo. It consists of 8 separate protected areas, encompassing 112,000 hectares of tropical rainforest and associated shrubland. The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is, from a biodiversity perspective, one of the richest regions in the world in terms of species. This area contains unique mountainous types with high levels of endemism in both flora and fauna, highlighting the importance of conservation.

The Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve features three major landforms, each corresponding to different geological periods. The oldest rocks in the reserve are Precambrian metamorphic and magmatic gneiss formations, which make up the highest mountain ranges located farthest from the sea. Tertiary limestone deposits form the highlands and gently rolling hills within the reserve. Quaternary sediments and marine sands have accumulated to create an irregularly shaped coastline and several coastal sand dunes.

The Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve has a humid tropical rainforest climate, with an average annual rainfall of 1,500–1,750 mm. Precipitation is particularly scarce during the months of August, September, January, and February, especially in inland and less ocean-influenced areas, where the dry season is more pronounced. The annual relative humidity is around 80%. The dominant wind direction throughout the year is easterly, with particularly strong winds in spring; in winter, winds come from all directions but are generally mild. The average annual temperature in the Atlantic Forest Biosphere Reserve is 22–24°C.

Brasília, Brazil