Atlantic Forest Southeast Reserves, Brazil

Abstract

Atlantic Forest Southeast Reserves are in the states of São Paulo and Paraná, southeastern Brazil. The area comprises the Serra do Mar coastal mountains chain and associated groups of peaks, hills, deep valleys, and coastal areas. The site is formed by 25 protected areas and contains one of the largest and best preserved domains of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, one of the most threatened biomes of the world. Part of the area is included in the international Mata Atlântica Biosphere Reserve. From mountains covered by dense forests with numerous waterfalls and an abundance of orchids and bromeliads and karst phenomena to coastal islands and estuaries with vast mangroves, the site offers a natural environment of great beauty with tremendous terrestrial and marine biodiversity.