There are many famous wetlands in the world that have been deemed important for the homeostasis ofthe biosphere and accorded some form ofprotected status in view of the richness of their flora and fauna. T}1e Pantanal, located almost directly in the center ofthe South American continent, is among the largest such wetlands in the world. It is, in fact, the largest wetland that is still in a nearly natural state and has not been extensively modified by man for agriculture. The extent of the region covered by flood waters at the end of each rainy season varies from year to year, sometimes considerably, so estimates of the exact area it occupies have varied enormously. The size of the 2 2 Pantanal has been reported to be between 80,000 km (Bonetto, 1975) and 250,000 km (Tundisi and Matsumura-Tundisi, 1985). The most co~on1y accepted estimates at the present time are approximately 130,000 to 140,000 km , supported by estimates made from Nimbus-7 satellite observations (Hamilton et al. , 1996). However, Por (1995) suggested that the area extending into Bolivia and Paraguay has not been satisfactorily 2 surveyed, leading him to accept the figure of 200,000 km as the area of the entire Pantanal, ineluding all of its extensions. The main reason for the year to year variation in the extent of the flooding is the considerable difference in timing of the rainfall on the watershed.

Until now there has never been a monograph devoted to the Pantanal, the world's largest wetland. The subject has received scant attention in the international literature, so a number of scattered Portuguese papers are reviewed for an English-language readership. The book presents a broad treatment of the Pantanal, ranging from geology to flora, fauna, and the human presence. The publication of this book is most timely, and will be of crucial importance in decisions affecting the ambitious project for a second South American inland Waterway.

Forty-two chapters by international experts from a wide range ofdisciplines make The Wetlands Handbook the essential toolfor those seeking comprehensive understanding of the subject. Adeparture from more traditional treatises, this text examinesfreshwater wetland ecosystem science from the fundamentals toissues of management and policy. Introductory chapters address the scope and significance ofwetlands globally for communities, culture and biodiversity.Subsequent sections deal with processes underpinning wetlandfunctioning, how wetlands work, their uses and values for humansand nature, their sensitivity to external impacts, and how they maybe restored. The text is illustrated by numerous examples,emphasising functional and holistic approaches to wetlandmanagement, including case studies on the wise use andrehabilitation of wetlands in farmed, urban, industrial and otherdamaged environments, highlighting the long-term benefits ofmultiple use. The Wetlands Handbook will provide aninvaluable reference for researchers, managers, policy-makers andstudents of wetland sciences.

Whether you're sipping caipirinhas by the beach or paddling through the Amazon, discover the true meaning of Brazilian alegria with Moon Brazil. Inside you'll find: Flexible itineraries including the three-week best of Brazil, two weeks in São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro, and a two-week Amazon adventure Strategic suggestions for outdoor adventurers, beach-goers, foodies, nature and wildlife fanatics, and more Top activities and unique experiences: Spot giant otters and jaguars on a canoeing expedition, or swim with pink river dolphins in the Rio Negro. Hang glide over Rio's Guanabara Bay, go rafting beneath Iguaçu Falls, ride a dune buggy across the beaches of Ceará, or trek through the dense Amazon rain forest. Soak up the sun on a sugary beach and sip a fresh caipirinha, or go paddle boarding or surfing in the warm waters. Savor an authentic feijoada, kick back at a local boteco, and dance the night away to the sounds of samba Expert insight from longtime Salvador local Michael Sommers on how to experience Brazil like an insider, support local businesses, and avoid crowds Practical safety advice for trekking through jungles, including how to minimize your environmental impact in the Amazon Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout Background information on Brazil's landscape, history, and cultural customs Handy tools including a Portuguese phrasebook, packing suggestions, and travel tips for families with kids, women traveling alone, seniors and disabled travelers, and LGBTQ travelers With Moon's practical tips and local know-how, you can experience Brazil your way. Exploring more of South America? Try Moon Chile or Moon Peru.

The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget is the definitive guide to making the most of this exotic region without breaking the bank. Backpackers, career-breakers, gap year travellers and those who want more bang for their buck, will find in-depth budget information for all twelve South American countries and every aspect of travel. From hotels, hostels and restaurants to special events, festivals and adrenalin-pumping outdoor activities, this guide is packed with the best budget information. You'll find "Treat Yourself" boxes that feature great places and things worth splashing out on and also a full-colour introduction with highlights for every country. There are reviews and recommendations for night-life, shopping, markets and entertainment, as well as useful words and phrases in every language and detailed maps for hundreds of locations. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Central America on a Budget.

The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget is now available in a new ePub format. It is the definitive guide to making the most of this exotic region without breaking the bank. Backpackers, career-breakers, gap year travellers and those who want more bang for their buck, will find in-depth budget information for all twelve South American countries and every aspect of travel. From hotels, hostels and restaurants to special events, festivals and adrenalin-pumping outdoor activities, this guide is packed with the best budget information. You'll find “Treat Yourself” boxes that feature great places and things worth splashing out on and also a full-introduction with highlights for every country. There are reviews and recommendations for night-life, shopping, markets and entertainment, as well as useful words and phrases in every language and detailed maps for hundreds of locations. Make the most of your time with The Rough Guide to Central America on a Budget.