Category: Geography > Geology
Beneath the dense foliage of the Amazon rainforest lies an extensive and ancient geological formation known as the Guiana Shield. This shield is composed of some of the oldest rocks on Earth, dating back over 2 billion years. Its unique geological features, including vast plateaus and steep cliffs, have created a variety of ecosystems that are home to an incredible wealth of biodiversity. The Guiana Shield not only shapes the landscape of the Amazon but also plays a critical role in regulating the region's climate by influencing rainfall patterns and serving as a significant carbon sink, thereby impacting global climate dynamics. Understanding the Guiana Shield helps scientists appreciate the intricate relationships between geology, ecology, and climate in one of the world's most vital ecosystems.