Terry L. Erwin, Curator of coleoptera and Head of Departament of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC

"Ecuador's Yasuni Park, set up 1979, became a UNESCO World Biosphere in 1989. This extraordinary place – probably the richest zone of biodiversity on the planet –escaped the last Ice Age, becoming a refuge for species of flora and fauna and a centre for the evolution of new species. Each of my two hectare study plots (Onkone Gare & Tiputini) have more than 100,000 species of arthropods. The area is truly the most species-rich site known on the planet.


Yasuni is home to three indigenous nationalities: Kichwa, Shuar and Waorani who still conserve their ancient culture and traditions. It is also the land of Tagaeria, Taromenane and Oñamenane people who have chosen to live in isolation from the outside world.


But Yasuni is not only rich in people, animals and plants: there are vast oil deposits below its soil. Oil exploration has already damaged the delicate balance of the forest and threatens to destroy the indigenous people's way of life.


that is why it is vital that we protect the Yasuni now; it is vital we support projects such as Yasuni Green Gold. Many groups and individuals are working together to save the forest and to let the world know before it is too late. I hope you will join us."

Terry L. Erwin

Curator of coleoptera and Head of Departament of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC