Apuri

Apuri, also known as the Apure River, is a river in Venezuela and Colombia. It is the largest affluent of the Orinoco River in Venezuela, contributing approximately one-fifth of its total discharge. The river's drainage basin covers an area of around 75,000 square kilometers, encompassing parts of both countries. The Apure's course is characterized by its meandering nature, forming numerous oxbow lakes and wetlands, especially in its lower reaches.

The river originates in the Andes Mountains of Venezuela and flows eastward through the Llanos, a vast tropical grassland region. This region is known for its rich biodiversity, with the Apure and its associated wetlands supporting a variety of wildlife, including capybaras, caimans, and numerous bird species. The Apure is navigable for much of its length, serving as an important transportation route for local communities and for the movement of goods, particularly agricultural products, in the Llanos.

Historically, the Apure has played a significant role in the settlement and development of the region. Indigenous peoples have long inhabited its banks, and it later became a route for Spanish explorers and colonizers. Today, the river's economic importance lies in its role in transportation, fishing, and agriculture in the surrounding fertile plains. The Apure's flow is influenced by seasonal rainfall, with periods of higher water levels during the wet season and lower levels during the dry season.