Beware in the Rainforest

Amazonian Manatees

These are gentle giants known for their slow movements. They are herbivores feeding on aquatic vegetation. Being shy and elusive the keep to calm waters so they can graze. Manatees are a symbol of the river’s rich biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species.

Anacondas

Green anacondas are among the largest snakes in the world. They are known for their size and strength. These snakes are powerful constrictors and can quickly subdue their prey. The often hide beneath water.

Black Caimens

These are among the largest predators in the Amazon. Their dark skins provide camouflage in the muddy waters. These are powerful reptiles that prey on fish, birds, and mammals. Caimans are a vital part of the ecosystem, controlling prey populations. They are very adapt at navigating through the waters.

Bull Sharks

These sharks are known to swim in both freshwater and saltwater. They have been seen far inland in the Amazon River. They are known for their aggressive behavior and are top predators. Bull sharks pose a potential threat ot humans even though attacks are rare.

Electric Eeels

Electric eels are not true eels but a type of knifefish. These can generate up to 600 volts, plenty to knock down a large animal. The fish use their electricity pulses for navigation, communication, and hunting. Electric eels prefer slow moving water and hide under submerged logs and vegetation. It is very dangerous to swim near them particularly if they feel threatened.

Giant Otters

Giant otters are the largest members of the weasel family. They are social animals seen in groups. Their playful nature belies a fierce territorial instinct. The otters feed on fish, crustaceans, and even small caimans. They have great hunting skills. Giant otters are vocal using a wide range of sound to communicate.

Giant River Stingrays

Giant river stingrays are among the largest freshwater fish in the world. They are usually found at the bottom of river using their camouflaged appearance to blend in with their surroundings. They have long venoumous tails that can be a danger to humans if provoked. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by preying on bottom-dwelling organisms.

Goliath Tigerfish

Goliath tigerfish are not native to the Amazon but have been found there. They have sharp, needle-like teeth and powerful jaws. These fish are capable of taking down large prey. Goliath tigerfish are larger and more aggresive than piranhas.

Payaras

Payaras are also known as vampire fish for their long, sharp fangs which protrude from their lower jaws. They are aggresive hunter and feed on smaller fish. They use their fangs to impale prey. Payaras play a crucial role in the ecosystem, controlling fish populations.

Pirarucus

Pirarucus are also known as arapaimas and are one of the world's largest freshwater fish. They are air breathers so they come to the surface often. These fish feed on other fish and crustaceans. Pirarucu are a staple in local diets but are threatened by overfishing. Conservation efforts aim to protect them.

Piranhas

These are the infamous fish with sharp teeth and powerful bites. They can be found in schools and are known to attack in frenzied groups. These fish primarily feed on insects and other fish and are known to be aggressive hunter. It is particularly important to be aware if swimming in the dry season when food is scarce.

Red-Bellied Pacus

Red-bellied pacus are often mistaken for piranhas. However, these are herbivours and their diet consists of fruit, seeds, and plant matter. They play a crucial role in seed dispersal in the Amazon ecosystem. They have strong jaws with which to protect themselves.

Surinam Toads

These toads have a flat, leaf-like appearance. They are known for their unusual reproductive method. Females carry eggs embedded in their back, where they develop until hatching. Surinam toads prefer slow-moving waters and can easily camousflage among leaves. They contribute to the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.

Vampire Bats

Vampire bats are the only mammals that feed exclusively on blood. They are nocturnal and use their echolocation to navigate in the dark. These bats have heat sensors on their noses to locate blood vessels near the skin surface. Their feeding does not harm their host.