Reading Comprehension Grade 4

The Amazon Rain Forest

The Amazon rain forest is the world's largest tropical rain forest, covering about 5.5 million square kilometres across nine countries in South America. It is home to an estimated 10% of all species on Earth, including jaguars, pink dolphins, anacondas, and over 2,000 species of birds. The Amazon River, which flows through the forest, is the second longest river in the world. Rain forests like the Amazon are often called the "lungs of the Earth" because they absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide and produce the oxygen we breathe. However, the Amazon is in danger. Deforestation — the cutting down of trees for farming and industry — destroys millions of acres every year. Scientists warn that unless we act quickly, this vital ecosystem may be lost forever.