Ntio

Ntio, also known as the Ntiyo, is a cultural group indigenous to the region of Upper Xingu in the Brazilian Amazon. They are one of the many peoples who make up the Xingu Indigenous Park, a protected area established to preserve the cultural and biological diversity of the Amazon rainforest. The Ntio language belongs to the Tupi-Mondé family of languages, although it is closely related to other languages spoken within the park, facilitating inter-group communication.

Historically, the Ntio have lived in close-knit communities, traditionally organized around a central men's house, which serves as a hub for social, political, and ceremonial activities. Their subsistence economy is based on a combination of agriculture, primarily manioc and corn, and hunting, fishing, and gathering. This traditional lifestyle has been significantly impacted by external pressures, including deforestation, agricultural expansion, and contact with non-indigenous populations.

The Ntio culture is rich in oral traditions, music, and dance, often tied to seasonal cycles and spiritual beliefs. They hold deep spiritual connections to the natural environment, viewing the forest and its inhabitants as integral to their existence. Efforts are ongoing to preserve their cultural heritage and traditional way of life while addressing the challenges they face in the modern world. Their resilience and adaptation strategies are crucial for their continued cultural survival.