Dec 2, 2023, 02:50 PM IST
Reunion Island’s forests, formed after volcanic activity three million years ago, boast of unique biodiversity, housing 40 bird types, five bat species, giant turtles, and 380 vascular plants.
Dating back 25-50 million years, the Hyrcanian forests span 528 miles along the Caspian Sea’s southern border. Home to 180 bird species, 58 mammals, and unique Persian leopard and wild goat, their resilience during past ice ages sets them apart.
Covering 2.72 million square miles, the 55 million years old Amazon hosts over 390 billion trees, producing 20 per cent of the world’s oxygen. With 3,000 fish species, 1,300 birds, and 2.5 million insects, it’s also home to many Indigenous tribes.
A 130 million-year-old rainforest, Taman Negara, named after King George V, harbours 500 bird species, 150,000 insects, and rare elephants, tigers, and rhinoceroses. Its canopy walkway and Gua Telinga cave walk provide a unique look to this Malaysian forest.
Developed 130 million years ago, Borneo’s rainforests host 15,000 plant species, 3,000 tree types, and diverse fauna, including pygmy elephants and orangutans. The rainforests receive over 150 inches of rainfall annually.
Growing for 180 million years, the Daintree Rainforest in Australia spans 460 square miles along Queensland’s Pacific coast. Hosting 3,000 plant species and rich fauna, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts.