The richest continent

Which continent is the richest in living species, i.e. in biodiversity? Scientists have determined that South America is home to the largest number of species due to a combination of factors. The tropics, with their warm and humid climate, promote greater plant diversity, which in turn supports a greater variety of animals. Moreover, the South American continent has a wide range of habitats, from the Amazon rainforests to the Andes mountains, offering diverse ecological niches for countless species to thrive. In particular, here are some factors that influence the distribution of animal species across continents.

Availability of plants. Plants are the basis of animal life, so a place with greater plant diversity can support greater animal diversity. Plants thrive in warm and humid places, which is why the tropics tend to have greater biodiversity. Heat is also beneficial for decomposers, which quickly break down the dead matter that plants use to obtain valuable nutrients.

Insects. Warmer climates are more suitable for insects, which are unable to regulate their body temperature. Insects pollinate many flowering plants, so more insects lead to more pollination and reproduction of plants.

Variety of habitats. A continent with high biodiversity offers a variety of habitats, such as multi-layered rainforests and mountains with different microclimates. These different niches allow several species to coexist without competing for the same resources. Scientist Norman Myers coined the term biodiversity hotspot to describe areas with a high level of biodiversity. In the late 1980s, Myers used this term to describe places where exceptionally high numbers of species live. There are currently 36 biodiversity hotspots around the world, most of which are located on continents crossing the equator, where the climate is hot and humid.