Amazon may have Andes to thank for current diversity

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40141835/ns/technology_and_science-science/

This article details new discoveries by scientists that suggest the rise of the Andes mountains (34-65 million years ago) had a profound effect on the formation and diversity of the Amazon rainforest. The rise of this mountain range blocked humid air from the Atlantic ocean, increasing rainfall on the eastern side of the mountains. This rainfall eroded soil that was rich in nutrients and minerals, and deposited it at the base of the mountains. The Andes also prevented water from draining back into the ocean, creating a vast, fertile wetland. The wetlands began to dry up around 7 million years ago, fostering colonization of may different types of plants and animals.

This article shows little to no bias, it simply recounts a theory proposed by scientists about the formation of the Amazon.
This article was published on November 11th, 2010 on MSNBC.com

II. The Living World
A. Ecosystem Structure
C. Ecosystem Diversity

- Tom Peters