How many savannahs are there in the world?

The term "savannah" refers to a specific type of ecosystem characterized by a mix of grasslands and scattered trees, which is often found between tropical rainforests and desert regions. Due to its broad definition, the "number" of savannahs in the world isn't a fixed figure, as savannahs can be found in various parts of the world, each with different sizes and characteristics.

The savannah biome covers a substantial part of Africa, as well as areas in South America, Australia, India, and the margins of some of the Southeast Asian islands. Instead of thinking about savannahs in terms of distinct numbers, it's more accurate to consider the vast expanses of land across the globe that are classified as savannah ecosystems.

In Africa, the savannah is extensive, covering almost half the continent. It's home to the Serengeti Plains (in Tanzania) and the Maasai Mara (in Kenya), which are some of the most well-known savannah regions, teeming with wildlife and biodiversity.

In South America, you will find the Cerrado, which is the largest savannah region in the continent, covering more than 20% of Brazil. Australia has its tropical savannahs in the northern region, while India has the grasslands of the Deccan Plateau with savannah-like characteristics.

Each of these savannah regions is a dynamic ecosystem that supports a diverse array of flora and fauna, adapted to the unique climate and geographical conditions found therein.

Savannahs are defined by their climate and vegetation. These areas typically have a warm temperature year-round, with a distinct dry and wet season. They receive less rainfall than tropical rainforests and are more humid than deserts. This ecosystem supports a variety of grasses that are resistant to drought, fires, and heavy grazing by herbivores. Trees are present but are widely spaced due to the lack of water during the dry season. Savannahs are important for biodiversity, providing habitats for a variety of animals, including large mammals like elephants, lions, and zebras in Africa or jaguars, and anteaters in South America.

Because savannahs depend on a balance between wet and dry conditions, they can be sensitive to changes in climate. With the global climate changing due to human activities, savannahs may be at risk of desertification or encroachment by forests depending on how rainfall patterns change. Conservation of these areas is crucial for maintaining the world's biodiversity and supporting the communities that rely on them for sustenance.