neotropical

The Neotropical realm is one of the world's eight biogeographic realms, comprising the tropical terrestrial ecoregions of the Americas. It extends from southern Mexico and the Caribbean through Central America and much of South America to northern Argentina, including major basins such as the Amazon and the Orinoco and the island groups of the Caribbean.

Origin and boundaries: The concept was proposed in the 19th century by Philip Sclater and has been refined by subsequent biogeographers. The Neotropical realm is defined by distinct assemblages of flora and fauna that differ from those of the Nearctic realm to the north and from other major realms worldwide.

Biodiversity and ecosystems: The Neotropical realm is renowned for high species richness and endemism. Its landscapes range from tropical rainforests (Amazon, Atlantic Forest, Chocó-Darién) to Andean cloud forests, dry forests (Caatinga, parts of the Cerrado), and Caribbean coastal and island ecosystems. The fauna includes primates (howler monkeys, capuchins), marsupials, sloths, bats, and a diverse bird guild (toucans, macaws, antbirds, hummingbirds), as well as reptiles, amphibians, and rich freshwater fishes. The flora features iconic groups such as orchids, bromeliads, and a wide variety of tropical trees.

Conservation and research: The Neotropical realm contains many biodiversity hotspots and is a major focus of conservation biology. It faces ongoing threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, mining, agriculture, and climate change, which jeopardize species and ecological processes.

Subregions and provinces: The realm is informally subdivided into biogeographic provinces, including Amazonia, Andean, Guiana Shield, Caribbean, and Central American coastal and inland forests, reflecting distinct evolutionary histories and ecosystems.