Tumucumaque

Tumucumaque is a massive protected area located in the Amazon rainforest, primarily in the Brazilian state of Pará and partially in Amapá. Its full name is Parque Nacional Montanhas do Tumucumaque. Established in 2002, it is one of the largest national parks in Brazil and a significant conservation unit in the Amazon basin. The park's name derives from the Tumucumaque Mountains, which form a natural border between Brazil and French Guiana.

The primary objective of Tumucumaque National Park is to protect the immense biodiversity of its pristine rainforest ecosystem. It encompasses a vast expanse of primary Amazonian forest, characterized by high rainfall, dense vegetation, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park is crucial for safeguarding numerous species, many of which are endangered or endemic to the region. These include jaguars, giant otters, harpy eagles, and various primate species. The Amazon River dolphin also inhabits the park's waterways.

Tumucumaque is a vital component of the Amazon's ecological network, contributing to climate regulation and the preservation of hydrological cycles. Its remoteness and the establishment of protected status have helped to maintain its ecological integrity, shielding it from the deforestation and development pressures that affect other parts of the Amazon. The park is managed by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). Access to the park is restricted to scientific research and ecotourism with specific authorizations, ensuring minimal human impact.