The longest river in South America is the Amazon River. Stretching approximately 4,345 miles (7,062 kilometers), it flows through several countries, including Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The Amazon basin is a vast and biodiverse region, housing numerous species of flora and fauna. The river is not only significant for its length but also for its immense watershed, supporting various ecosystems and indigenous communities. The Amazon is often referred to as the "lungs of the planet" due to its extensive rainforests, which play a crucial role in carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen production.