A recent study led by researchers from the IB-Unicamp published in New Phytologist reveals that the wet fields and veredas of Brazil's cerrado region can store as much as 1,200 tons of carbon per hectare. This carbon storage is approximately six times higher than that of typical Amazon rainforest biomass. The study emphasizes that on average, this carbon has been accumulating in these regions for about 11,000 years, with some deposits dating back as far as 20,000 years, which is facilitated by the anaerobic conditions in the water-saturated soils.

The researchers highlighted that the wetlands, which are dependent on the water table, have not been extensively studied in the past. Using remote sensing data alongside machine learning techniques, they conducted a preliminary mapping of these areas, revealing that they may cover around 167,000 square kilometers in the cerrado. This figure is at least six times larger than previously estimated, showcasing the significant extent of these vital ecosystems.

The implications of this study are substantial, as it not only re-evaluates the role of the cerrado in carbon storage but also implies the need for greater conservation efforts. Recognizing the vast carbon storage potential of the cerrado wetlands could shift focus from solely protecting the Amazon rainforest to also valuing and conserving these critical areas that contribute significantly to climate change mitigation efforts.