Paraguay River, Major river system in Mato Grosso, Brazil.
The Paraguay is a river in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, flowing roughly 1584 miles south from the Brazilian highlands through Paraguay. It forms natural borders with Bolivia and Argentina along much of its route before joining the Paraná.
The first European exploration took place in the 16th century when Sebastian Cabot navigated its waters, linking it to the Paraná system. Since then it has served as a major trade route and natural border between several South American countries.
The name comes from the Guaraní language and roughly means big water mirror, reflecting the close relationship indigenous peoples have with this waterway. Many communities along the banks still use it today for fishing and as a transport route between remote settlements.
The waterway is navigable for small boats and larger cargo vessels, providing access to cities such as Corumbá. During the rainy season flooding can significantly change water levels, affecting navigation conditions.
The river system feeds the Pantanal, a sprawling wetland region home to more than 350 fish species. Around 80 of these species live exclusively in this area and are found nowhere else in the world.
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