Humid Chaco

NT0708 Neotropic Tropical & Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas & Shrublands 291592 km²

The Humid Chaco is a tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas and shrublands ecoregion located in the Neotropic biogeographic realm, covering Central and South America, the Caribbean, and southern portions of Mexico, spanning approximately 291,592 km². Classified under the WWF ecoregion code NT0708, this region represents a distinct ecological community shaped by its unique combination of climate, geography, and evolutionary history.

Climate and Vegetation

This ecoregion experiences warm year-round with seasonal rainfall and a distinct dry period. The dominant vegetation consists of grasses interspersed with scattered trees and shrubs. These conditions create the foundation for the ecological communities found within the Humid Chaco.

Ecological Significance

Savannas support some of the most iconic large mammal assemblages on Earth, including herds of grazers and their predators. Fire and herbivory maintain the open grassland structure. The Humid Chaco contributes to the broader biodiversity patterns of the Neotropic realm.

Geographic Distribution

The Humid Chaco extends across Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. This geographic range places it within the Neotropic realm, one of the eight major biogeographic divisions of the world.

Notable Species

The Humid Chaco supports a range of wildlife, including (Ramalina lacera), (Tulostoma fimbriatum), (Hypholoma ericaeum), (Lepiota subalba), (Echinoderma calcicola), (Xylaria corniformis), (Porotheleum fimbriatum), (Coniocarpon cinnabarinum), and 42 more species. Among these, 20 species are classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List, underscoring the conservation importance of this ecoregion.

Conservation

Like many tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas and shrublands ecosystems, the Humid Chaco faces threats from overgrazing, agricultural conversion, fire suppression, and desertification. Conservation efforts in this ecoregion focus on habitat preservation, sustainable land management, and protecting corridors that connect fragmented habitat patches.