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homo-house · 7 months

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hey uh so I haven't seen anyone talking about this here yet, but

the amazon river, like the biggest river in the fucking world, in the middle of the amazon fucking rainforest, is currently going through its worst drought since the records began 121 years ago

picture from Folha PE

there's a lot going on but I haven't seen much international buzz around this like there was when the forest was on fire (maybe because it's harder to shift the narrative to blame brazil exclusively as if the rest of the world didn't have fault in this) so I wanted to bring this to tumblr's attention

I don't know too many details as I live in the other side of the country and we are suffering from the exact opposite (at least three cyclones this year, honestly have stopped counting - it's unusual for us to get hit by even one - floods, landslides, we have a death toll, people are losing everything to the water), but like, I as a brazilian have literally never seen pictures of the river like this before. every single city in the amazonas state is in a state of emergency as of november 1st.

pictures by Adriano Liziero (ig: geopanoramas)

we are used to seeing images of rio negro and solimões, the two main amazon river affluents, in all their grandiose and beauty and seeing these pictures is really fucking chilling. some of our news outlets are saying the solimões has turned to a sand desert... can you imagine this watery sight turning into a desert in the span of a year?

while down south we are seeing amounts of rain and hailstorms the likes of which our infrastructure is simply not built to deal with, up north people who have built everything around the river are at a loss of what to do.

the houses there that are built to float are just on the ground, people who depend on fishing for a living have to walk kilometers to find any fish that are still alive at all, the biodiversity there is at risk, and on an economic level it's hard to grasp how people from the northern states are getting by at all - the main means of transport for ANYTHING in that region is via the river water. this will impact the region for months to come. it doesnt make a lot of sense to build a lot of roads bc it's just better to use the waterway system, everything is built around or floats on the river after all. and like, the water level is so incomprehensibly low the boats are just STUCK. people are having a hard time getting from one place to another - keep in mind the widest parts of the river are over 10 km apart!!

this shit is really serious and i am trying not to think about it because we have a different kind of problem to worry about down south but it's really terrifying when I stop to think about it. you already know the climate crisis is real and the effects are beyond preventable now (we're past global warming, get used to calling it "global boiling"). we'll be switching strategies to damage control from now on and like, this is what it's come to.

I don't like to be alarmist but it's hard not to be alarmed. I'm sorry that I can't end this post with very clear intructions on how people overseas can help, there really isn't much to do except hope the water level rises soon, maybe pray if you believe in something. in that regard we just have to keep pressing for change at a global level; local conditions only would not, COULD NOT be causing this - the amazon river is a CONTINENTAL body of water, it spans across multiple countries. so my advice is spread the word, let your representatives know that you're worried and you want change towards sustainability, degrowth and reduced carbon emissions, support your local NGOs, maybe join a cause, I don't know? I recommend reading on ecological and feminist economics though

however, I know you can help the affected riverine families by donating to organizations dedicated to helping the region. keep in mind a single US dollar, pound or euro is worth over 5x more in our currency so anything you donate at all will certainly help those affected.

FAS - Sustainable Amazon Fundation

Idesam - Sustainable Developent and Preservation Institute of Amazonas

Greenpeace Brasil - I know Greenpeace isn't the best but they're one of the few options I can think of that have a bridge to the international world and they are helping directly

There are a lot of other smaller/local NGOs but I'm not sure how you could donate to them from overseas, I'll leave some of them here anyway:

Projeto Gari

Caritás Brasileira

If you know any other organizations please link them, I'll be sure to reblog though my reach isn't a lot

thank you so much for reading this to the end, don't feel obligated to share but please do if you can! even if you just read up to here it means a lot to me that someone out there knows

also as an afterthought, I wanted to expand on why I think this hasn't made big news yet: because unlike the case of the 2020 forest fires, other countries have to hold themselves accountable when looking at this situation. while in 2020 it was easier to pretend the fires were all our fault and people were talking about taking the amazon away from us like they wouldn't do much worse. global superpowers have no more forests to speak of so I guess they've been eyeing what latin america still has. so like this bit of the post is just to say if you're thinking of saying anything of the sort, maybe think of what your own country has done to contribute to this instead of blaming brazil exclusively and saying the amazon should be protected by force or whatever

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amnhnyc · 9 months

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Did you know there are pink dolphins? Meet the Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis). Found in the Amazon and Orinoco rivers, this species is known for its rosy complexion. How pink it is depends on the water it lives in: the Sun can have a fading effect on its signature color, so living in murkier water can help it retain its pink hue. To track down prey, including piranhas and cichlids, it uses echolocation and the hairs on its snout.

Photo: Ana Claudia Jatahy - MTUR, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

#dolphins #amazon river #nature #orinoco #dyk #factoftheday

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unbfacts · 2 months

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Why Are There No Bridges Across the Amazon River?

#Amazon river #facts

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blueiskewl · 7 months

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Amazon Drought Exposes Ancient Rock Carvings

Human faces sculpted into stone up to 2,000 years ago have appeared on a rocky outcropping along the Amazon River since water levels dropped to record lows in the region’s worst drought in more than a century.

Some rock carvings had been sighted before but now there is a greater variety that will help researchers establish their origins, archaeologist Jaime de Santana Oliveira said on Monday.

One area shows smooth grooves in the rock thought to be where Indigenous inhabitants once sharpened their arrows and spears long before Europeans arrived.

“The engravings are prehistoric, or precolonial. We cannot date them exactly, but based on evidence of human occupation of the area, we believe they are about 1,000 to 2,000 years old,” Oliveira said in an interview.

The rocky point is called Ponto das Lajes on the north shore of the Amazon near where the Rio Negro and Solimões rivers join.

Oliveira said the carvings were first seen there in 2010, but this year’s drought has been more severe, with the Rio Negro dropping 15 meters (49.2 feet) since July, exposing vast expanses of rocks and sand where there had been no beaches.

“This time we found not just more carvings but the sculpture of a human face cut into the rock,” said Oliveira, who works for the National Historic and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) that oversees the preservation of historic sites.

#Amazon Drought Exposes Ancient Rock Carvings #amazon river #Ponto das Lajes #rock carvings #ancient carviings #ancient artifacts #archeology #archeolgst #history #history news #ancient history #ancient culture #ancient civilizations

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bethanythebogwitch · 5 months

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Wet Beast Wednesday: Amazonian river dolphin

It's the last Wet Beast Wednesday of the year. I started doing this little project to help myself get used to Tumblr and encourage myself to use it more often. That absolutely worked and I'm going to keep going. For my first ever WBW post, I discussed an adorable cetacean, so I'm going to call back to that by discussing a less adorable cetacean. Meet the Amazonian river dolphin, also known as the boto, bufeo, and pink dolphin because, well look at it.

(image id: an Amazonian river dolphin peeking out of the water. It is a large dolphin with a long, thin snout, bulbous head, and small dorsal fin. Its entire body is bright pink. end id)

River dolphins are dolphins the exclusively inhabit freshwater. There are several species (from four to six depending on your source) that are not all closely related. Probably the most famous of these is the Amazonian river dolphin Inia geoffrensis. They live in the Amazon, Orinoco, and upper Maderia rivers of South America. There are three subspecies: I. g. geoffrensis (the Amazon river dolphin), I. g. humboldtiana (the Orinoco river dolphin), and I. g. boliviensis (the Bolivian river dolphin, previously considered a separate species). There is also debate on whether the Araguaian river dolphin should be considered a subspecies of Amazonian river dolphin or a separate species. A common name for the dolphins found throughout Brazil is boto, though this is also used to refer to another river dolphin species, the tucuxi, as well as marine dolphins that occasionally enter fresh or brackish water. The amazonian river dolphins is the largest river dolphin, with males reaching 2.5 meters (8.2 ft) and 185 kg (408 lbs). Males are larger than females, averaging 16% longer and 55% heavier. The most famous feature of these dolphins are their color. while they are born grey, they lighten up as they age, eventually becoming pink. The amount of pink varies between individuals, with some being grey with pick spots and others going full Barbie mode. It's not clear why they turn pink and why some are pinker than others. Possible explanations include the distribution of capillaries under the skin, consuming large amounts of pink pigment through their diet (the same thing that happens with flamingos), and exposure to sunlight. Males are generally pinker than females, which may be due to them accumulating larger amounts of pink scar tissue while fighting over females. The dolphins get noticeably pinker when they are excited, which may be similar to a human blushing.

(Image id: a dolphin holding its head out of the water, seen from the front. Its mouth is partly open, showing a single row of teeth within. It is pink. end id)

Amazonian river dolphins are not known for being the prettiest cetaceans. With long, skinny shouts, lumpy bodies, non-distinct dorsal fins, and scarred, rough skin, they won' be winning many beauty contests. Maybe its for the best that they don't have very good eyesight. When living in a place as murky as a major river, eyes often aren't that useful. They instead navigate almost exclusively through echolocation. While not as powerful as they eyes of oceanic dolphins, river dolphin eyes are adapted to take in any available light, letting them see better in low-light environments such as a murky river under a canopy of leaves. The bulbous head contains the melon, an organ found in cetaceans used for echolocation. The melon can change shape, which may help focus the echolocation for different purposes. Part of the lumpy profile of the boto likely comes from their lack of blubber. Living in a tropical river means that river dolphins don't lose nearly as much body heat and therefore don't need the thick layer of blubber that helps streamline oceanic dolphins. They also don't need to be as hydrodynamic as they are a lot slower than oceanic dolphins. While slow, river dolphins are maneuverable and can rotate their flippers to turn themselves around without having to swim in a circle. In addition, unlike oceanic dolphins, the boto's neck vertebrate are unfused, allowing them to turn their head side to side. All of this helps the dolphins navigate and search for food in crowded rivers and flooded sections of forest. Another unique feature is the presence of whiskers on their snouts and cheeks, which are believed to help find food when poking around in the mud and aquatic plants. Yet another unique feature is the fact that they are heterodonts. This means they have different types of teeth. In the front of the snouts are the sharp, conical teeth found in other dolphins, but the uniquely have molar-like teeth in the back. These are used to crush hard prey, such as shellfish and turtles.

(image: a dolphin partially breaching out of the water while upside-down. Its large fins are in the air and its head is turned soits chin is facing the camera. end id)

The diet of the Amazonian river dolphin is the most varied of any toothed cetacean. At least 53 species of fish are part of its diet, though it prefers croakers, chiclids, tetras, and piranhas. As mentioned above, its molar-like teeth also allow it to crush through hard-shelled animals including bivalves, crabs, and turtles. They have been known to cooperate with tucuxi dolphins and otters to hunt, with the different animal working together to drive fish out of hiding places. The dolphins practice seasonal migration to follow their prey. During the wet season, they travel into floodplains, lakes, flooded parts of forests, swamps, and other places that are inaccessible during the dry season. During the dry season, they travel back into the main river. Males return to the river sooner that females and calves. The dolphins are less social than other dolphins, usually traveling alone or in groups of 2-4 members, though larger groups do happen. They do communicate with each other using whistles. During mating season, which usually happens in late June or August, they will congregate in large numbers. Males attempt to court females by carrying objects in their mouths such as branches and leaves and by nipping at the female's fins. Males also become aggressive and will fight with other females and with females that refuse their advances. These fight often leave the males covered in scars and nicks that can be used by scientists to identify them. Males will attempt to mate with as many females as possible. Gestation takes just under a year and calves are born in May and June as the wet season is beginning. The calves will nurse for a year and stay with their mother for two to three years. Females will not mate until their current calf has left, giving a mating frequency for females of between 2 and 3 years. Males may attack calves to force the mother to mate again. The life expectancy of wild dolphins is unknown.

(image id: a dolphin holding a leaf in its mouth. This may be part of a courtship display or play behavior. end id)

Amazonian river dolphins are known to be curious, playful, and not fearful of unfamiliar objects. This may because adults have almost no natural predators. Jaguars, caimans, and anacondas will attack them, but prefer targeting calves over adults. They are known to play with sticks, plants, small animals, and other submerged objects. They are also reported to follow boats and rub up against them and grab oars with their mouths. This may be a combination of play behavior and following boats to catch fish they scare. River dolphins have also been reported to approach humans, usually children, and examine or play with them. Botos feature quite a bit in the mythology and folklore of the peoples of South America. A common myth states that the boto can come on shore at night and take the form of a human, a boto encatado. While appearing as beautiful people, they need to wear hats as their blowholes stay on their heads. Male encantados come to shore to party and seduce women, but must return to the river before the transformation wears off. Many illegitimate children are fathered when an encantado comes to town. Female encantados seduce and bewitch married men. She will visit him on the anniversary of their meeting for seven years. On the seventh year, she turns him into a baby and places him in his wife's womb. Some stories say that they come from an underwater paradise called Encante and visit humans to experience hardships and parties. It is said that people who travel the river at night, especially women and children, may be kidnapped by the dolphins and taken to Encante, from which they will never return. Other stories say that the dolphins can make beautiful music and control storms. Killing one brings bad luck, and eating one brings worse luck, while making eye contact curses you with nightmares. Their body parts had magic powers and were sometimes used as fetishes (not that kind) by shamans.

(image: a man with back to the camera hand-feeding a fish to a dolphin. end id)

Amazonian river dolphins are classified as endangered by the IUCN. Their largest threats come from humans. Overfishing leads to food loss and can lead to the dolphins becoming entangled in nets and drowning. Damming reduced their habitat and excess gold mining releases poisonous mercury into the water. Some are also killed to be used as bait. Fishermen have been known to kill dolphins who damage their equipment. Deforestation is also decreasing usable habitat. Amazonian river dolphins fare poorly in captivity and captive breeding is not considered a viable conservation method.

(image id: a dolphin calf being rescued by a conservationist. the person is holding it out of the water. The dolphin has the same body shape as an adult, but is grey instead of pink).

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lionfloss · 2 years

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Amazon river dolphins. Would you look at these absolute hams?!

#why did i just find out about these dorks #amazon river dolphin #bufeo #pink river dolphin #animals #amazon river #nature #river #pink #water #wildlife #1k

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ltwilliammowett · 1 year

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How the Amazon River got its name

Homer’s epic tales speak of a fierce tribe of large, powerful female warriors who dwelled near the Caucasus Mountains in the days before the Trojan War. They were said to have stood against the invading Greeks until their queen, Penthesilea was killed by Achilles. They were called Ἀμαζόνες - Amazons, derived from the Greek words ἀμαζός - breastless, from the belief each warrior had her right breats removed tp facilitate shooting of bow and arrow. There are, however, other theories as to the origin of the word, for the Amazons were often depicted with both breasts, which again calls this myth into question, but that is another topic.

The Amazon River (x)

Fast forward to 1541 when the Spanish seafarer Orellana, while exploring a large river in South America, was attacked by a groupe of natives whose women fought as fiercely as the men.Thinking of the powerful women of antiquity, he named them Amazons, and because they lived by this river, he named the river Amazon.

#naval history #exploring expedition #amazon river #16th century #age of discovery

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tobiasbruns · 6 days

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Amazonas -2023-

#tobias bruns #photographers on tumblr #original photographers #black and white photography #b/w photography #street photography #landscape photography #landscape #amazon river #brazil #floating

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dreaminginthedeepsouth · 1 year

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Here’s a view of the Amazon river from the International Space Station!

[Physics-Astronomy]

* * * *

“The three rules of the Librarians of Time and Space are: 1) Silence; 2) Books must be returned no later than the last date shown; and 3) Do not interfere with the nature of causality.”

― Terry Pratchett, Guards! Guards!

#Space Station #from above #Amazon River #river #patterns #quotes #Terry Pratchett #space and time #from space

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stone-cold-groove · 7 months

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Anaconda, Queen of the Amazon.

#vintage illustration #snakes #anaconda #the amazon #south america #jungles #south american jungle #amazon basin #amazon river #eunectes murinus #herpetology #biology #zoology

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mmerces · 8 months

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#sunset #amazonia #nature #amazon river

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thatanimalauthor · 1 year

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Cronchy

Giant otters live in the Amazon rainforest, and they are one of the region's apex predators. The males can reach up to 6 feet in length.

They've been known to eat other apex predators, like caimans and even anacondas, but they mostly eat fish. They like medium-sized fish like catfish and perch, and they even snack on piranhas!

Unfortunately, they're endangered :( there are only an estimated 1,000 to 5,000 giant otters left in the wild. They were targeted by fur traders, because their fur is very soft and dense, and the global giant otter population hasn't fully recovered from overhunting. They also face threats from habitat loss and pollution.

I'll be releasing my new book, All About Giant Otters, very soon. Upon release it will be free for a short period of time!

#animals #animal facts #wildlife #nature #otters #giant otter #amazon river #amazon rainforest

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cognitivejustice · 1 month

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How solar power is changing life in Ecuador's Amazon basin

For more than 40 years, the local Indigenous people, the Achuar, have been advocating to stop oil development, which has ravaged large swaths of the Ecuadorian Amazon. But even as they fought against fossil fuels, gasoline was their only option to light their homes and power the boats tied to their livelihood. This area has the thinnest electric coverage in the country. But now a smattering of solar panels across 12 villages in a couple of Ecuador’s deeply forested eastern provinces are transforming life.

Solar power is shaping how they go about daily life in ways big and small, from how they get to work to how they negotiate their connections to the world beyond the Amazon.

Photo above: A solar-powered electric boat

For generations, young men farmed the land, built huts or left their village to find work outside the jungle. Now solar panels are opening up other options.

In the Kapawi Solar Center, an open structure overlooking the Pastaza River, 20 solar panels power a dozen outlets strapped to bamboo poles. There, technicians such as Óscar Mukucham can charge up and hold workshops on how to install panels.

As a boy, Mukucham, now 23, had visions of solar boats moving through the river. Now he teaches others how to maintain them in the Amazon humidity.

Solar power is also fueling eco-tourism. The Kapawi Ecolodge, a hotel managed by the community, boasts 64 panels that illuminate 10 cabins, the dining room and other hotel facilities for 24 hours a day.

The solar boats are so quiet, they make for ideal vessels for nature tours: They don’t scare away dolphins or birds.

For Canelos, the lamps and panels are enabling a bigger vision: powering the Amazon without scarring it with roads and poles. Solar energy connects them to the world beyond their home, while preserving the ancient traditions that have sprouted from its rich rainforest floor.

“We cannot talk about the fight against extractive activities if we are consuming fuel,” he said. “Just as the sun makes life possible on the planet, it also allows the Achuar to keep their culture alive.”

Source

#ecuador #amazon river #amazon basin #rural #solar power #solar power boats #solar farms #clean energy #transformation #latin america #indigenous peoples

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scooby-doo-exploration · 6 months

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paradisedivine - Canoeing Kayaking in the Amazon river

#gif #paradisedivine #sports #kayaking #amazon river

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gwydionmisha · 7 months

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#Amazon River #Rock Carvings #Drought #Indigenous History #Brazil

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ariellewm · 6 days

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"Whispers of the Enchanted River" A Short Story by Arielle W.M.

Author's Note: Thanks to my Brazilian friend that introduced me to some Brazilian folklore that inspired this story. I've wanted to try my hand at writing a fantasy mystery.

Warnings: Kidnapping, hypnosis (for those that are uncomfortable with those scenarios)

Summary: Strange disappearances have been occurring lately along the Amazon River close to the riverside town. Alipha reassures herself that her visiting American friend Rose would be safe. At the last minute her family found Rose a place after her rental was mysteriously cancelled. Although the cabin is a few blocks away from Alipha's family house, it just to happened to be right along the Amazon River itself. Will Alipha and Rose be safe from the mysterious occurrences?

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The riverside town was lively as the afternoon sun brought warmth to the locals. Amidst the hustle and bustle was a large family seated outside the riverside restaurant. Everyone was engaged in conversation filled with chatter and laughter as they waited for their drinks. They arrived not long after their daughter, Alipha, received a text from her friend that she was on her way.

One of the servers came around with an array of drinks on the large tray.

“Cafés, waters,” the server said, placing the cups of coffee and glasses of water down at the table before reaching for Alipha, “and one strawberry caipirinha for the senhora.”

“Obrigada.” She thanked the server.

“Filha,” her mother glanced at her, “daughter, it’s only the afternoon, and your already drinking?” “Why not?” “Why now? Don’t you want to wait until your cousin’s festa later today?”

Alipha replied, raising her glass, “Might as well start celebrating earlier than later.”

She took a sip of her caipirinha, anticipation building within her. She hadn’t seen her foreign friend in many years since she graduated from an American college. The river gently lapped against the dock as small boats passed by the restaurant. She wondered how much further her friend was. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ “Ei, ei, va embora! Get away!” The fisherman spoke aloud.

A small river boat titled for a moment, almost causing a patron to fall over. She gripped tightly on the edge of the boat. The fisherman noticed her pale face hovering over the murky water. Her blonde hair stuck to her neck from the excruciating heat.

“Are you alright, miss?” He called out to her.

Ignoring his question, of course she wasn’t alright. She already dealt with a delay that almost made her miss her international flight; the Airbnb she rented out was canceled for unknown reasons. To top it all off, she was riding in a small, somewhat functioning fishing boat only fit for two people on a hot, humid day. Then there was the sea sickness issue. She closed her eyes, taking deep breaths in and out to calm herself.

I’m almost there. Rose said to herself. Then I can finally meet up with my best friend from college.

It’s been three years since their graduation. Back then, Alipha and Rose were inseparable and went everywhere together. They would go bar hopping, go on shopping excursions, and try new restaurants that opened nearby. Since Alipha returned home to Brazil, life for Rose hasn’t been the same. Conversations consisted of texting or reacting to other socials.

Rose’s sapphire eyes opened to notice something in the water. It rose gracefully up and down by the boat. It was a dolphin. This dolphin, however, wasn’t just any ordinary dolphin she’s seen by the marina back home. It was pink, like her grandmother’s kitchen tile walls. It looked almost alien with its triangular shape and long, thin snout.

She turned back to the local fisherman that Alipha had arranged for Rose, “Pink dolphins?”

“Sim, yes, river dolphins.” He kept his eyes focused ahead, “They’ve lived in these waters for as long as I can remember.”

The pink dolphin was getting rather close to the side of the boat. It seemed that the creature was trying to get a better view of the pretty human, with his head popping up occasionally. Rose noticed its small, playful black eyes staring back. Smiling, she reached down to gently stroke the creature. The dolphin squeaked back, enjoying her gentle touch. Like a cat, it nudged the boat several times, seeking more attention. She chuckled, reaching down once more to pet it. It wouldn’t be long, though, before they arrived at the village. As they got closer to the docks, her new friend circled and disappeared into the depths of the river.

“ROSE!” She saw her friend by the dock, waving her down. In tow from behind was her family. They all had warm smiles and greeted Rose as soon as the boat docked. Her father tipped the fisherman while her mother and Alipha got Rose’s belongings off.

While sitting outside of a small family-operated café, Rose told them of the mysterious cancellation of her rented-out Airbnb within the village.

“Meu amor, Palo, you know of someone who has a place for Rose, don’t you?” Alipha’s mother asks her husband.

“Of course I do! There’s a small, lovely cabin nearby the river.” Palo reached for his cellphone. “I’ll try to give them a call to see if it’s available.”

The place was vacant, to her surprise. Luckily, it wasn’t far from Alipha’s parents’ home, and she didn’t have much to bring. A large suitcase, a travel backpack, and whatever money she was able to exchange beforehand. So, she made the trek to the cabin, and as soon as she arrived, she was in awe.

The cabin’s cleanliness was quite impeccable. Crisp white linens, a small wooden box filled with sweets, and a welcome card on top of the pristine countertop. There were double sliding window doors to reveal the backdrop of the Amazon River, with a dock included for renting out boats. If only she could stay a little longer. Rose received a text from Alipha that read,

Don’t settle in too quickly, amiga! We have a festa to go to! I’ll come back to pick you up.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The outdoor birthday festa was lively, even in the late evening. Rose was happily getting along with Alipha’s family, along with Alipha’s cousin, who happened to be the birthday girl. They danced, they laughed, and they drank the night away. Rose had never had such fun outside of her own country before. It was the first time in a long time that she felt comfortable getting loose and having fun.

Rose excused herself to get another drink at a secluded bar far off the dance floor. She decided to order herself another round of one of the fruity cocktails her friend had introduced her to. It was her third drink of the night. Fumbling for her Brazilian real, she felt someone nearby approach the bar.

He was the most collected gentleman Rose had ever seen. She looked over his polished white suit, noticing hints of fuchsia along the collars and vest area. It was almost hard to see his face with his broad-brimmed white hat on. He looked up to notice the beautiful foreigner staring. Quickly, she looked back at the bartender crafting her drink, fiddling with her money.

The gentleman leaned in slightly, his arm resting on the countertop with his hand on his cheek. A charming smile appeared on his handsome face, “Olá beautiful.”

Startled, she turned to see him, nervous as ever. It was the first time any man had ever greeted her in this sort of setting. “Umm, hi there.” She turned back to notice that her frozen concoction was ready to be consumed.

“Senhor, I’ll order what she’s having,” he spoke to the bartender. She handed the money over, but a warm, tanned hand stopped her, “and it’ll be on me.”

“You’re too kind, sir. Thank yo—I mean, ahem, obrigada.”

He chuckled at Rose’s nervous response, “De nada, your very welcome.”

While they waited for his drink to be finished, they made small talk. Rose talked about graduating from college, starting a new job, and visiting her friend. Even after his drink was made, they continued to talk on and on. Clearly, there seemed to be some chemistry between the two. Alipha, from a distance, even noticed how close they were getting.

Another bartender came back from his break to notice the man, “Excuse me, senhor, but are you even part of this gathering at all?”

The white-suited man was surprised, “Oh, my apologies, I thought this was a public bar tonight.” “I’m afraid no—”

Out of the gentleman’s pocket, he gave the bartender a gracious tip. “No need for trouble tonight, meu amigo, I’ll be on my way.” He smoothly slides off the stool before reaching for Rose’s hand.

His soft lips touched the back of her hand, his dark onyx eyes looked into hers, “I hope to see you again, querida.” He soon rushed off into the dark part of the street, almost as if he had vanished, blending in with the shadows.

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“How could you forget his name?!” Alipha asked as both walked back to the cabin, “The two of you seemed to really hit it off.”

“I never got his name to begin with.” she said, a little disappointment in her voice. “We were so lost in conversation that by the time he left, I forgot to ask. He just left so suddenly. I honestly thought he was part of the party.”

Alipha sighed, “My parents got super worried about you. My mother apparently has seen him at other bars and festa’s in the past.” “Really?” “Yes, so just be careful, especially on your own out here.”

They reached for the front door as Rose fiddled for the keys in her purse.

“We aren’t far from here if you need anything.”

“Thank you, Alipha, for everything. Have a goodnight.”

“You too, Rose. See you tomorrow.”

Later that night, she could’ve sworn she heard someone calling out to her. It was a lovely, honeyed voice. She was tempted to open those sliding doors. To see if it was the white-suited man. Those dazzling onyx eyes, that charming white smile. She was too exhausted to leap out of her memory foam bed, sleep taking over.

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For the next two days, Rose’s itinerary was planned out by Alipha’s relatives. They would take her around town and to all the historical sites nearby. It would end with them visiting other family members, including her grandparents. After having lunch on the second day, they all decided to take a walk. The trail they followed was near the river. Rose noticed from behind that Alipha’s grandfather looked uncomfortable. He kept glancing back at the river and back at the girls.

Alipha pointed out something peeking out of the water, “Hey, look Rose!”

Rose caught a glimpse of her pink dolphin friend. Squeaking, it tried to get Rose’s attention. It swam as close as it could get. The dolphin paused to get a better look at its friend. Rose smiled back at the creature, remembering her encounter earlier in the week.

Alipha’s grandfather rushed over to the girls, spooking the dolphin before it got any closer. It dove back down into the water.

He cursed under his breath in his language before continuing their walk. Alipha was confused by her grandfather’s actions.

“That creature is dangerous!” He told her, especially toward Rose. “You must never go near the river. Bad things happen to those who stray near the water. And especially at night. It grabs yah and takes you down with it.”

Alipha rolled her brown eyes. “Oh, avô, please. It’s just a myth.” “A myth?! I may be old, but I’ve seen things before your time.”

She whispered to Rose, “Don’t listen to him. My grandfather had too many of those Brazilian papaya cream desserts from earlier.”

“Eu ouvi isso! I heard that!” He groaned. They giggled in response as they made their way back to the house.

The dolphin popped up its head once more without the grandfather looking. It then dove back into the murky water. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun subsided over the Brazilian horizon. Another day is gone. No more being dragged around by Alipha’s parents. Rose could finally enjoy the large feast her parents hosted outside of their casa. She could already smell the illecebrous aroma that lingered in the air. Grilled and smoked meats are placed on skewers or on large platters around the large table. At the center was a traditional Brazilian seafood stew she had been wanting to try since her arrival, moqueca.

The gathering continued. Family members mingled about, laughing at jokes, and simply enjoying the evening. Rose was finding herself growing tired. The rich, savory food had caused her to grow weary. She excused herself, thanking Alipha and her family for hosting. Rose was reminded once more that if she needed anything, she could call them. So, she left, but not without getting plenty of leftovers for the next few days to have back at the cabin.

Rose decided to sit outside for the rest of the evening. A gentle breeze swept by, carrying the scent of florals around the cabin. Her legs were kicking over the edge of the dock, staring out into the lapping of the river. The crescent moon illuminated the vast expanse of the night sky. Stars that seemed to dance high above the dark abyss.

She found solace in this very moment. No loud music, no annoying relatives speaking loudly. Just serenity by the water. If she wanted, she could leave everything behind in America and make a place for herself here. Alipha’s family would be more than happy to help with her move. But unfortunately, she had other things going on back home.

A low, melodious song broke out, stopping all thoughts. There was a sense of familiarity to the faint, hauntingly mesmerizing voice. Her eyes looked around her surroundings, and the gentle breeze tousling her long hair. Could it happen to be the same voice that whispered to her the first night in the cabin? A shiver ran down her spine, trying to locate the person or thing that was singing to her. There were no fishing boats or any sort of creature on the water.

Her heart raced in anticipation and eagerness. The voice seemed to slowly emanate somewhere beneath the dock. Taking a deep breath, she cautiously leaned over the edge, peering down into the water. Rose felt a strange presence in what lay below. She was transfixed, her eyes slowly swirling into a dark, pearlescent daze.

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“Ô filha?!” Alipha’s mother called out from the kitchen to her daughter, “Have you heard from your friend lately?”

“Não mother.” Alipha joined her parents and grandfather at the table. She sighed, reaching over for the warm bread rolls, “I’m sure she’s just enjoying herself around.”

It had been two days since the last time she or anyone in her family heard from Rose. Not even the locals in town had seen her. It was too soon for her to leave, as the same fisherman who brought her over hadn’t seen her. She had about three days left before leaving to head back to America.

Her grandfather crossed his arms, “Somethin’ isn’t right.”

Alipha looked at her grandfather, “Avô?”

“I’m sure Rose is having a lovely time.” Her mother responded, “She’ll respond back.” “Mãe, it’s been two days.” Alipha took out her phone, showing her mother, “Nothing back from her. She hasn’t seen any of the messages I sent. Even the one I sent her last night.”

The old man got up from the table, grabbing his jacket from behind the chair. He groaned as he pulled up his jacket, “I’m going to get a search party.”

Alipha’s mother stopped him at the door, “That’s going a bit far, isn’t it pai? Perhaps Alipha should visit the cabin to check up on her.” “No.” “Wha—”

Opening the door, he turned back on his daughter and granddaughter, pointing at each of them with assertiveness, “I don’t want neither of yah you to go near that god forsaken cabin! There’s somethin’ strange about that place.”

In the past, when outsiders visited the cabin, they were usually by themselves or with a significant other. It was uncommon for families to stay at such a place. Occasionally, the place would be vacant, so those who had trouble booking could stay for a night or a week if need be. The last time they had a visitor was during Festa Junina, when a single lady from another town was visiting. She was reserved to stay for a week, only to notice her belongings were gone after day five of her visit.

He continued, “Haven’t you or Bernardo noticed that whenever the place opens, it’s always during a festa? No one bats an eye when they notice they’re gone early. They just assume they have gone elsewhere.”

Bernardo shook his head before taking another sip of his espresso. He pondered in silence before opening his mouth, “I could call the man that owns the place—” “NO! You estúpido idiota. We do this my way! Do meu jeito!”

His daughter was hurt by Abilo’s harshness toward her husband. She was about to open her mouth before she noticed someone missing from the table.

“Alipha? Alipha!”

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Alipha rushed out of the house before her mother realized she was gone. She just couldn’t stand the bickering from her family. Another part of her felt there was something odd about that cabin. Her grandfather had always speculated that it was haunted. Even before its renovation.

As a child, she and a few other children explored the abandoned cabin. The locals had no recollection of who the past owner was. Some claimed that the owner had perished or simply neglected the place. Children would play hide-and-seek there and sit by the dock to throw rocks into the river. During her grandfather’s time, there was a drowning incident in the river near the cabin. This caused many of the locals to fear what sort of evil surrounded the place. Children have been forbidden to visit since.

As time went by, a new owner bought the property and began renovating. Alipha couldn’t remember what the owner looked like. In fact, no one knew. It was a mystery who the man was. Some say he was a rich American man, while others claim he looked to be outside of the Americas. All that they knew was that the owner rarely ever showed up, and Alipha’s father somehow had his number in case a foreigner needed a place to stay.

Overwhelming thoughts rained over her. Could perhaps the person who owned the place take Rose hostage? The place had security in place. There were cameras outside and around the cabin. The police would’ve already started their investigation if that were the case. But it wasn’t common.

Then her grandfather’s statement sent shivers down her spine.

“Haven’t you or Bernardo noticed that whenever the place opens, it’s always during a festa?”

Of course! Why hasn’t she thought of that? In the past, she noticed that whenever a party or festa was happening in town, the cabin would be open the day of. Other times, it would be vacant for tourists during American vacations or a holiday getaway. It had been happening since her arrival back home.

Her heart raced as she approached the cabin. The sun was already settling, creating a warm glow over the dark river. The dock she once sat among with friends shared no boats or birds around the area. No cars were parked in the lot, and there were no bicycles near the neatly organized porch. The dirt pathway remained untouched other than Alipha’s footprints, which left a trail from behind.

A chill ran up her spine as she approached the door. Her heart pounding with every step. She raised her hand, knocking hard against the wooden door.

“Rose? Rose?” She knocked again, “It’s me, Alipha! Open up!” There was no answer, to which she released a long sigh. This was concerning.

With a reluctant groan, the door creaked open. Surprised, Alipha’s brown eyes peered through the crack. “Hello?” Cautiously, she opened the door further.

The cabin was cleaned to her surprise. Not a single speck of dust. Polished countertops with a welcome basket filled with fresh fruit and other goodies. She made her way toward the small kitchen. The fridge that held Alipha’s leftovers was gone. The small pantry next to the fridge, which had a couple of Brazilian snacks Rose had gotten, was empty. Her gaze went over the pristine countertops to the neatly made queen bed. Blankets and decorative pillows were tidily placed for its next guest. There was no sign of Rose’s bags either. It really did seem as if she had left the place.

Alipha slid the back porch sliding doors open. She stepped outside upon the wooden floor, the dock stretched out toward the dark water. The sun had completely disappeared, casting a blanket of stygian night. She then glanced at a dark figure from afar that alerted her. It emerged gracefully from the river before planting himself at the edge of the dock near the unilluminated lanterns. Alipha was puzzled.

Who in their right mind would go swimming at this hour? It’s far too dangerous to be in the river at night. Even the locals in town were aware of the dangers within.

The figure moved their arms, reaching for an object to put on its head. A hat, perhaps? It’s rather odd to be carrying a hat while swimming.

It straightened its back, turning its body and head sideways before turning its attention toward Alipha. She froze, unable to leave the porch. It was too dark to tell if the figure’s gaze was locked on her in the darkness.

Then, a soft and calming voice slithered into Alipha’s consciousness.

“Venha até mim,” it spoke, its whispers tickling her ears, “Come to me.”

Her legs had a mind of their own, carrying her down the length of the dock. Her heart was fluttering in her chest. There was anxiety, yet fascination, about who was calling out to her. The little part of her mind was telling her to stay put, to resist the call. She tried to grasp at anything as she slowly passed by. The railings, the poles—anything to keep her from approaching toward it.

The ethereal susurrus continued to beckon her.

“Don’t be afraid, darling,” it whispered, “não tenha medo…that’s it…come closer…”

Each step Alipha took felt heavier. The groaning of the aging wooden dock grew louder and louder as she continued. Her legs refused to stop or turn around. She wished that, at any point, the old wooden platform would collapse on itself, preventing her from reaching toward the figure. She regretted all of this. She should’ve listened to her grandfather to begin with.

The hypnotic voice ceased, causing Alipha’s legs to stop. This was her chance. She could finally take a break for it. Leave this haunted place and admit that her friend had been taken by this mysterious being. Her pulse quickened at the revelation of the figure.

The flickering of the lantern that obscured her vision had now stayed on. It was a man—a finely dressed man. His presence was otherworldly and yet alluring. But this man, however, she had seen him before. Many days ago, in fact, on the night of her cousin’s birthday festa.

“You’re… you’re the—” She gasped at the sight of the man’s lower half. A pinkish-grey tail was in replacement of the gentleman’s legs. Its faded purple caudal fins undulated as the tail lifted slightly. There was an absence of scales; instead, the merman’s tail looked smooth and rubbery. “Y-you’re a boto encantado.”

A dolphin shapeshifter. Enchanted beings of the Amazon River. Beings that could turn into handsome men, luring women, and children through their charms. They came from Brazilian folklore her grandfather told her as a young girl.

She had several more questions for this being, “You’re the one responsible for all those disappearances, aren’t you? Espiescally of Rose.”

The shapeshifter smirked, “That’s quite the accusation, minha bonita.” He shifted himself upon the dock, still in his tail form. He continued, “What makes you think I’m responsible for such an act?”

“You’re the owner of that cabin, are you not?” She pointed behind her to the vacant property, “You only open it’s vacancy when there’s a festa happening in town.”

He chuckled once more, “Inteligente girl you are my dear. Yes, I am the owner of the place. I renovated that place years ago.” “And you kidnapped those girls, those women that stay there?”

These benevolent, sadistic creatures were known to do such acts. Charm female humans or innocent children to the point of no return.

“Me?” Innocently, he responded, “Kidnapping? Oh, I would never do such a thing, bonita. Have you mistaken me for another of my kind, perhaps?”

Alipha was losing her patience, “Then where is Rose?”

The encantado puzzled for a moment in thought. Humming to himself, Rose wasn’t having it, “Answer me, boto!”

“Oh! Your amiga from America?” He leaned up against the pole, turning his handsome face back to Alipha, “She’s quite the woman your friend is. We had a lovely talk one evening about meeting the Amazon manatees. I assure you though she’s well, and…wha—what are you doing?”

Alipha dropped to her knees. Tears slowly trickled down her freckled cheeks. Whatever this shapeshifter was hiding from her, she didn’t believe that Rose was well. No, she knew her friend was in danger or worse.

“Please,” she begged, “please bring back Rose. I beg of you, shapeshifter.” She covered her face, unable to control her anxiety over her fear of her friend’s fate.

“Shh, shh… não chore, don’t cry.” He cooed to her, reaching a hand toward her. His hand was shockingly warm on her soft cheek, causing her to abruptly open her eyes. Alipha had a better look at the man.

His face was chiseled by a master sculptor. He had a strong jaw that paired well with his chinstrap beard. Deep, onyx eyes pierced into hers. His tanned thumb continuously wiped the tears under her brown eyes. Another hand stroked her chestnut hair back. She closed her eyes, leaning into his gentle touch.

“Não chore bonita. I tell the truth.”

She gradually opened her eyes, “She…she is?”

“Have you heard of the place my people are from, lovely human?” She shook her head, and the shapeshifter smiled, continuing, “Encante, that is where your friend Rose is. She is among others who have entered the underwater city. It’s a peaceful, wealthy city.” He sighed, “Unfortunately, those that enter the boundaries of the city are forbidden to leave. There is no need for tears. They will treat her like a queen.”

He glided his smooth hand toward her chin. Alipha took a deep breath, glistening eyes fluttering open. She gasped at the sight.

His ethereal voice returned with the capture of black swirling pearlescent eyes, “I could always bring you to her. That way, the both of you will never have to be separated again. Doesn’t that sound nice?”

The brown in her eyes slowly transformed into a mystic black haze. Alipha sighed, smiling and forgetting about all her worries and concerns. Rose was safe. She could be with her, together. Never be separated again by continents or from other worlds. Alipha nodded in response.

“That’s a good querida…” He leaned in toward the dazed Alipha. His cool lips met hers, indulging in a passionate kiss. An arm coiled around her thin form, bringing her closer to his shockingly warm body.

The shapeshifter’s hypnotic trance on the human was cut short. A group of men, along with the barking of dogs, headed straight to the cabin. Flashlights led the way, along with the loud noises of members of the group calling out for both Rose and Alipha. The boto encantado noticed the female awakening from his magic spell.

Blinking, Alipha shook her head to realize just how much closer she was to the enchanting man. For a moment, she felt like she was in a dream. Now, it turned out to be a nightmare. It was probably how Rose fell for this being—from not only his mesmerizing eyes but his musically entrancing voice. She struggled in his tight grip on her. Unable to get free, she began to scream out to the group.

The boto cursed himself. Quickly, he placed a hand over her mouth, muffling her calls for help. She twisted and turned her body, trying anything to get out of his grasp. He pushed himself off the dock, with another female human, into the cold river. Her Clothes soaked, the freezing water causing her to spasm.

She screamed through the palm of his hand once more before descending into the water, never to be seen again.

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To this day, no one has been able to find Rose or Alipha.

The town, including her family, searched all parts of the area. From searching in all parts of the town, the jungle trails, and the riverside. Nothing. There was absolutely no trace of either of the girls. After many months, they had given up their search.

The people of the town eventually blocked access to the cabin by the water and destroyed it. No one was allowed to build anything in that area. The dock, however, remained standing for unknown reasons.

Three years had gone by, and another festa was around the corner. The people would celebrate the lives of Rose and Alipha at Alipha’s family’s casa. Just then, an attractive woman made an appearance at the festa. She sat in silence, stirring her cocktail of choice at the table.

She arrived in town about a year ago, taking residence at a condo residence near the river. The lady was generous enough to help Alipha’s family during the tough times. Since then, she has always been invited to the family’s gatherings. It was rare, though, as she was busy with many other things out and about.

“Why, you look just like Bernardo’s daughter.” A local complimented the lady.

Another had asked, “Do you have relations to the family?”

“Porque sim, yes. A family friend of theirs.” She smiled back.

Before they could ask any more questions, both locals were called over for help inside the house. She took a sip of her pink cocktail. The fancy-dressed lady lifted her head, careful not to mess around with the white extravagant hat upon her head.

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