Beni savanna

The Beni savanna 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 125,589 km². Classified under the WWF ecoregion code NT0702, 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 Beni savanna.

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 Beni savanna contributes to the broader biodiversity patterns of the Neotropic realm.

Geographic Distribution

The Beni savanna extends entirely within Bolivia. This geographic range places it within the Neotropic realm, one of the eight major biogeographic divisions of the world.

Notable Species

The Beni savanna supports a range of wildlife, including African jointgrass (Hemarthria altissima), Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), Awnless Brome (Bromus inermis), Basket Willow (Salix purpurea), Bedstraw (Galium aparine), Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon), Birdbill Dayflower (Commelina diffusa), Black Elder (Sambucus nigra), and 42 more species.

Conservation

Like many tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas and shrublands ecosystems, the Beni savanna 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.