Biodiversidade Marinha e Costeira

Summary

Located at the border of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, Torres and Passo de Torres are part of the biodiverse Atlantic Forest biome. Despite the region's biodiversity, much of the forest has been lost. The area, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, is home to numerous unique species, both resident and migratory. However, many of these species, including plants, birds, marine mammals, and turtles, are threatened by extinction. Conservation is crucial, as the ecological balance is delicate. Visitors are encouraged to engage in sustainable practices to preserve the area’s rich natural heritage and ensure its future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Torres and Passo de Torres are located on the border of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, in the Atlantic Forest biome, which houses diverse ecosystems like marshy forests, lagoons, and dunes.
• 😀 The Atlantic Forest originally covered over 1.3 million square kilometers in Brazil, but today it has less than 15% of its original coverage, making it one of the most threatened biomes in the world.
• 😀 Torres and Passo de Torres are rich in local flora, with species like Capotiragua and Douradinha, which are native to the region but are now threatened with extinction.
• 😀 Over 200 species of birds, both migratory and resident, can be found in the region, including the piru peru, little white heron, and great gull.
• 😀 Lobos Island, a protected conservation area off the coast of Torres, hosts additional migratory birds like turnstones and albatross species, some of which are critically endangered.
• 😀 The region is home to endangered marine species, including green turtles and loggerhead turtles, which visit the beaches and waters of Torres and Passo de Torres.
• 😀 Mammals such as bottlenose dolphins, toninhas, and right whales are frequently seen in the region, with the critically endangered porpoise being a key concern for conservation.
• 😀 Pinnipeds, including the Southern Sea Lion and Southern Sea Wolf, are also commonly found in the region and contribute to the local name of Lobos Island.
• 😀 Torres attracts thousands of tourists each year, especially during the summer, but sustainable tourism practices are essential to prevent damage to local biodiversity.
• 😀 Responsible behavior, like proper waste disposal and adherence to environmental laws, is vital to protect the region's delicate ecosystems and ensure its preservation for future generations.

Q & A

What is the Atlantic Forest biome, and why is it significant?

The Atlantic Forest biome is a highly biodiverse ecosystem that originally spanned over 1.3 million square kilometers in Brazil. It is significant because it contains a wide range of species and ecosystems, but today, only about 15% of its original coverage remains.

What ecosystems are found within the Atlantic Forest biome?

The Atlantic Forest biome includes marshy forests, lagoons, sandbanks, and dunes, each supporting a variety of plant and animal species.

How have human activities affected the Atlantic Forest?

Human activities have led to a dramatic reduction in the forest's coverage, leaving less than 15% of its original area. This has resulted in significant threats to biodiversity in the region.

What makes the coastal region of Torres and Passo de Torres unique?

The coastal region of Torres and Passo de Torres is unique due to its location within the Atlantic Forest biome and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. It features a wide variety of plants and animals that are tolerant of coastal conditions like salinity, temperature fluctuations, and winds.

Which species in the region are threatened with extinction?

Several species in the region are threatened, including local plants like the Capotiragua and Douradinha, as well as animals like the beach lizard, green turtles, loggerhead turtles, and various bird species such as the yellow-nosed albatross and black-browed albatross.

How many bird species can be found in Torres and Passo de Torres?

At least 200 bird species are found in the region, including both resident and migratory species.

What are the notable migratory birds observed in Torres and Passo de Torres?

Migratory birds such as turnstones, white-rumped sandpipers, black-browed albatross, and yellow-nosed albatross can be observed in the region, particularly around Lobos Island.

What marine mammals can be found around Lobos Island?

Marine mammals like bottlenose dolphins, toninhas, and right whales are commonly spotted around Lobos Island. Additionally, pinnipeds such as the Southern Sea Lion and Southern Sea Wolf are often seen in the area.

Why are some species like the porpoise critically endangered?

The porpoise, along with other species, is critically endangered due to factors such as habitat loss, pollution, and human interference, which threaten their survival in the region.

What actions can tourists take to help preserve the region's biodiversity?

Tourists can help preserve biodiversity by disposing of waste correctly, respecting environmental laws, and reporting any environmental concerns to authorities. Conscious tourism is vital for maintaining the ecological balance of the area.