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Exploration of the tropical forest has brought a surprising revelation: there are many more plant species than scientists had estimated!
Dozens of unknown plants are studied every year, bringing to light a new genetic heritage and previously unknown molecules with pharmaceutical or industrial uses.
However, these ecosystems are very fragile and the slightest disturbance to their equilibrium puts them in danger. Deforestation, pollution and soil erosion are all threats which reduce their capacity to adapt. The impoverishment of biodiversity, even the loss of a single species, can bring about the ruin of an entire environment.
Moreover, the destruction of forests by fire releases tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere, which increases the greenhouse effect and contributes to global warming.
The tropical forest is also the home to ethnic groups whose survival is closely dependant on their environment.
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