South America
— REFUGIA IN SOUTH AMERICA —
Much of the glaciers that exist today are remnants from the Ice Age. Patagonia in South America boasts over 300 glaciers, some as large as 5km of ice. These slow-moving ice systems have made profound changes in landscapes, but also carry importance as water supply for the wildlife and people downstream of their melt.
The Amazon rainforest is a well-known biome that covers 40% of South America. It holds incredible biodiversity across its various ecosystems, with 1 in 10 species on the planet that call the Amazon home. With this, the Amazon carries a vital role in regulating climate and the health of the planet; identifying and preserving its regions of climate refugia becomes important for natural resource management.