How Do Rivers Divide Amazonian Animals?

Abstract

Rivers can be difficult barriers for animals to cross, especially animals that cannot swim or fly. The Amazon region has many of the largest rivers in the world, which limits the movements of many animals that cannot cross them. Thus, some animal species occur on one side of a river but not on the other side. Isolation of animal species caused by rivers or other physical barriers can generate what are called centers of endemism, which are regions that have unique species not seen anywhere else. In this article, we will explain how rivers create barriers to animal movement and how centers of endemism can contribute to the fascinating biodiversity of the Amazon region.