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The Pantanal is the largest freshwater wetland in the world. In addition to Brazil, it also extends into Bolivia and Paraguay. In Brazil, 65% of the territory is in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and 35% in Mato Grosso.
In 2000, the bioma was recognized as a natural heritage site and a biosphere reserve. According to the NGO SOS Pantanal, the region is home to at least 4,700 species, including 3,500 plant species, 650 bird species, 124 mammal species, 80 reptile species, 60 amphibian species, and 260 freshwater fish species.
The Pantanal is not just one.
Studies conducted by Embrapa Pantanal have identified 11 distinct Pantanals, each with its own characteristics in terms of soil, vegetation, and climate: Cáceres, Poconé, Barão de Melgaço, Paraguai, Paiaguás, Nhecolândia, Abobral, Aquidauana, Miranda, Nabileque, and Porto Murtinho.
The Pantanal is highly dependent on water. Its hydrological regime depends on local rainfall and, primarily, on those occurring in the headwaters of the main rivers, with large floods being mainly controlled by the Paraguay River.
These floods are important for cooling temperatures in Latin America.
Despite the irregularity caused by climate change, the rainy season runs from November to March, and the dry season spans from April to September.
In recent years, the bioma has suffered from large fires that destroy vegetation, kill animals, and fill the air with vast amounts of carbon.
The Pantanal is home to species such as jaguars, giant anteaters, caimans, giant river otters, and the tuiuiu storks.