Biomes of Guyana: Mangroves, Rainforest, Savanna, Evergreen Forest

Guyana (215,000 km²) on the Guiana Shield hosts four major biomes, each with distinct ecology.

1. Mangrove Forests (Coastal)

• Narrow belt along the Atlantic coast and river estuaries (Demerara, Essequibo, Berbice).
• Species: Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove).
• Functions: Coastal protection, fish nursery, carbon sequestration, habitat for scarlet ibis, caimans.

2. Tropical Rainforest (Interior – ~85% of land)

• Part of the Guiana Shield Amazonian forest; high canopy (30–40 m), immense biodiversity.
• Key trees: Greenheart (Chlorocardium rodiei), Purpleheart (Peltogyne), Mora, Wallaba.
• Fauna: Jaguar, giant anteater, harpy eagle, tapir, 800+ bird species.
• Iwokrama Forest & Kanuku Mountains: Protected areas & sustainable use zones.

3. Savanna (Rupununi – Southwest)

• Seasonally flooded grasslands with gallery forests along rivers.
• North Rupununi: Wet savanna; South Rupununi: Dry savanna (near Brazilian border).
• Wildlife: Giant river otter, black caiman, jabiru stork, pampas deer; ranching coexists with conservation.

4. Tropical Evergreen Forest (Transition Zones)

• Submontane/montane forests on Pakaraima Mountains (tepuis); cooler, misty, high endemism.
• Species: Tree ferns, bromeliads, orchids; golden frog, bush dog.

Conservation

Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) monetizes forest preservation via carbon credits (ART/TREES); ~18% of land under formal protection.