Natural History - Ecological Functions

    Ecological
    Functions

    Várzea forests are extremely important for functions such as capturing and cycling nutrients (a rapid process). Várzea also provide habitat for an amazing diversity of plants and animals, many of which are highly adapted to the flooded life style. The vegetation in várzea stabilizes flooded soils and landscapes. The várzea are critical habitat for many species of freshwater fish and aquatic mammals. The várzea are also a source of food for animals that colonize surrounding areas.
    As discussed in the flora section, many trees are crucial for fruit-eating fish, which take advantage of flooded forests. These trees include yellow mombim, socoró, and tarumã, as well as others.