What are Igapó forests?​

Igapó forests, also known in English as blackwater-flooded forests, are incredible and essential ecosystems for the Amazon. The term "igapó," derived from the ancient Tupi language, means "forest of roots," a name that reflects the unique adaptation of its plants to seasonal flooding conditions. Primarily located in the várzea regions along rivers and lakes, these forests are periodically submerged by freshwater, which can cover the trees for up to six months each year, depending on rainfall.

The main characteristic of these forests is seasonal inundation, resulting from the intense rains that define the region. During the peak of the flood, the trees become submerged, creating a unique landscape where only the most adapted species can thrive. The canopy of igapó forests is more open, with tree cover reaching up to 30%, and the tallest trees can grow up to 36 meters. The vegetation is diverse, with a notable presence of leguminous species, known for their ability to fix nitrogen, which is essential for the fertility of the flooded soil.

These forests play a vital role in preserving the biodiversity of the Amazon, providing shelter and food for a wide variety of species – from birds to mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.

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Why are we called Institute Igapó?​

The name Igapó Institute was chosen symbolically to reflect the deep connection between the nature of the Amazon and the work we do. Just as igapó forests are unique and essential ecosystems, characterized by their adaptation to seasonal flooding and the coexistence of diverse forms of life, Instituto Igapó aims to be a meeting point and a space for collaboration between science, environmental preservation, and local communities.

Thus, the name carries the spirit of an ecosystem that unites diverse forces to create something stronger and more resilient, reflecting the Institute's mission to be a space where science, conservation, and community coexist and thrive in harmony.

The metaphor behind the name refers to how igapó forests connect different elements of nature – land, water, and vegetation – in a cycle of interdependence. Similarly, Igapó Institute seeks to create connections between various sectors: researchers, traditional communities, organizations, and the public, with the goal of promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the Amazon.

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