Ep 3. Chile: Desert Voices

In season 1 episode 3 of Green Paradise titled "Chile: Desert Voices," viewers are taken on a journey to the driest place on Earth. The Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the most unforgiving places on the planet, with extreme temperatures and very little rainfall. Despite these challenges, the desert is still home to a variety of unique and fascinating wildlife.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the hardy flora that survives in the Atacama Desert. This includes a variety of cacti, such as the tall Cardon cactus which can reach heights of up to 10 meters. The cacti are able to store water in their thick stems, allowing them to survive for years without rainfall. Viewers are also introduced to the rare and endangered Copiapoa cactus, which grows in isolated clusters in the most extreme parts of the desert.

Moving on to the fauna of the region, the episode shows how a variety of animals have adapted to life in the desert. One of the most fascinating of these is the viscacha, a small rodent with fluffy ears and a long tail. Despite living in an extremely arid environment, the viscacha is able to survive by eating the dry grasses that grow in the region.

Viewers are also introduced to the guanaco, a wild relative of the domestic llama that is found throughout South America. Despite the challenging conditions of the desert, the guanaco is able to survive because of its ability to store water in its stomach.

As the episode progresses, viewers also learn about the human history of the Atacama Desert. The region is home to a number of indigenous communities, including the Aymara people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. The Aymara have adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert by developing complex irrigation systems to grow crops like quinoa and potatoes.

In addition to the indigenous communities, the desert is also home to a number of modern-day settlements and mining operations. The episode shows how these activities have had a significant impact on the environment, leading to issues such as soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

Despite the challenges facing the region, the episode ends on a hopeful note. Viewers are introduced to a group of scientists who are working to restore the fragile ecosystem of the Atacama Desert. By replanting native flora and fauna, and providing support for the local communities, these researchers hope to create a sustainable future for this unique and beautiful part of the world.

Overall, "Chile: Desert Voices" is a fascinating exploration of one of the harshest environments on Earth. Viewers will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation for the unique flora and fauna of the Atacama Desert, as well as the challenges faced by those who call this region home.