This 965-mile-long river stretches through the country of Columbia and has been the main commercial thoroughfare since Spain conquered the land in the 16th century.
The river provides a rich environment for various fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. These natural resources are critically relevant to the livelihoods of Colombians who live along its path. A number of other native animals are also found in the region, such as caimans, iguanas, pelicans, manatees, parakeets, turtles, and tortoises.