In the depths of the Amazon, an innovative conservation project has managed to reduce the mortality of endangered primate species. The initiative, led by researcher Fernanda Abra, consists of installing suspended bridges between the treetops, allowing monkeys to cross roads safely without risking their lives. Thanks to this strategy, vulnerable species such as Groves’ titi monkey, the Guiana spider monkey, and the red-handed howler monkey were able to move safely through their fragmented habitat.
So far, the Reconnect project has installed 30 of these structures in the Brazilian state of Amazonas. These bridges were designed with the support of the Waimiri-Atroari indigenous community, who contributed their knowledge about the habits and movements of local fauna. In addition, each bridge is equipped with trap cameras that allow monitoring the animals’ use and collecting key information for the planning of future interventions.
The advancement of road infrastructure in the Amazon has created a serious problem for the local fauna. The forest fragmentation forces animals to cross roads, exposing them to accidents and reducing their chances of finding food and mates for reproduction. This is the case of Groves’ titi monkey, one of the most endangered primate species in the world, whose situation inspired Fernanda Abra to develop this innovative solution.
Technology and conservation: hanging bridges for primates with an innovative approach
The hanging bridges were designed to mimic the natural conditions of the Amazon canopy, facilitating the safe transit of primates. Some incorporate elements such as zip-line crossings, optimizing the mobility of arboreal species. The project’s effectiveness was supported by scientific data obtained through trap cameras, which confirm the frequent use of these structures by animals.
The success of the Reconnect project led to replication in other regions of Brazil, including the state of Mato Grosso. Additionally, Fernanda Abra and her team received the Whitley Award for Nature 2024, an international recognition highlighting their impact on the conservation of Amazonian biodiversity.
This initiative represents an innovative model for protecting fauna in fragmented ecosystems, demonstrating that the combination of science, technology, and traditional knowledge can generate effective solutions to preserve the planet’s biodiversity.
How many species live in the Amazon?
The Amazon harbors a large number of plant and animal species, including:
- Plants: It is estimated that there are more than 80,000 plant species in the Amazon.
- Mammals: It is estimated that there are 427 mammal species in the Amazon.
- Birds: It is estimated that there are 1,300 bird species in the Amazon.
- Reptiles: It is estimated that there are 378 reptile species in the Amazon.
- Amphibians: It is estimated that there are more than 400 amphibian species in the Amazon.
- Fish: It is estimated that there are more than 3,000 species of freshwater fish in the Amazon.
The Amazon is one of the most biodiverse ecoregions on the planet. It is estimated that in the entire Amazon, there are more than 390 billion trees. Among the animals living in the Amazon rainforest are:
- Jaguars
- Sloths
- River dolphins
- Macaws
- Anacondas
- Glass frogs
- Poison dart frogs
The Amazon is the largest tropical forest in the world, covering 40% of the South American continent and extending across nine countries.
Do you already know our YouTube channel? Subscribe now!
