Lush Atlantic Forest on Marambaia Island, showcasing diverse tree and shrub species.

Guardians of the Green: Unveiling the Secrets of Marambaia Island's Forest

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Theo Raines in Climate & Environment April 2025 • 4 min read.

"Explore the hidden world of Brazil's Atlantic Forest on Marambaia Island and discover why preserving its biodiversity is crucial."


The Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened tropical biomes, faces relentless pressure from agricultural expansion and deforestation. This continuous exploitation leads to fragmented forests, jeopardizing countless species and disrupting natural ecosystems. Yet, within these fragmented landscapes lie pockets of resilience, areas where conservation efforts strive to safeguard what remains.

Marambaia Island, nestled in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one such haven. Here, on the slopes of the island, a unique section of the Atlantic Forest thrives, harboring a rich collection of tree and shrub species. This island's forest offers a crucial window into the biodiversity of the region and highlights the importance of ongoing conservation initiatives.

Understanding the composition of this forest—identifying its key species, assessing its health, and recognizing its similarities to other forests—is essential for effective conservation planning. This knowledge allows researchers to pinpoint priority areas, track changes over time, and implement targeted strategies to protect this invaluable natural treasure.

Marambaia's Green Heart: A Deep Dive into Species Diversity

Lush Atlantic Forest on Marambaia Island, showcasing diverse tree and shrub species.

A comprehensive study was conducted on Marambaia Island to catalog the tree and shrub species inhabiting its slopes. By employing a combination of detailed transect surveys and general observation walks, researchers identified a total of 235 species, distributed across 134 genera and 52 families. This diverse collection underscores the ecological richness of the island and its significance as a biodiversity hotspot.

The research highlighted the dominant families within the forest ecosystem. Myrtaceae, with 38 species, leads the way, followed by Fabaceae and Rubiaceae, each contributing 20 species. These families are crucial components of the forest's structure and play vital roles in supporting various ecological functions. Genera such as Eugenia, Myrcia, and Ocotea were particularly abundant, further emphasizing the unique blend of plant life on Marambaia Island.
Key findings from the study include:
  • Dominant Families: Myrtaceae, Fabaceae, and Rubiaceae.
  • Rich Genera: Eugenia, Myrcia, and Ocotea.
  • Threatened Species: 19 species identified as threatened.
  • High Similarity: Strong floristic similarity to Rio Bonito vegetation.
Of particular concern, the study revealed that 19 of the identified species are currently classified as threatened, underscoring the vulnerability of the ecosystem and the urgency of conservation efforts. The presence of these endangered species emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and protection to prevent further biodiversity loss. These findings contribute valuable insights into the conservation status of Marambaia Island and guide future initiatives.

Guardians of the Forest: A Call to Action for Conservation

The research on Marambaia Island's Atlantic Forest serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's diverse ecosystems. The high species richness and the presence of threatened species highlight the ecological significance of this area and the urgent need for conservation efforts. By understanding the floristic composition of the forest and its relationships with other regions, scientists and conservationists can develop targeted strategies to protect this valuable natural resource for future generations.

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