The araucaria, popularly known as Pino de Paraná, is one of the most emblematic trees of Brazilian flora. Its scientific name is *Araucaria angustifolia*, a species belonging to the Araucariaceae family. It is an evergreen tree, large and long-lived, which can reach more than 30 meters in height under favorable conditions. It has a straight and robust trunk, a characteristic chandelier-shaped canopy and branches arranged on floors, forming an easily recognizable silhouette in the landscape of southern Brazil.

From an ecological point of view, araucaria poses great importance for the ecosystems of the Bosque Ombroófilo Mixto —known as araucaria forest—, especially in the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. Its seeds, known as *pinhões* (piñones), constitute an important source of food for several species of fauna and also form part of the culture and traditional food of the populations of southern Brazil. The species also contributes to the conservation of biodiversity, the protection of soil, the formation of habitats and the maintenance of the natural cycles of the forest.

La araucaria is deeply linked to the cultural and natural identity of southern Brazil. Its presence in rural and urban landscapes represents the strength, resistance and wealth of Brazilian biodiversity. In addition to its ecological value, it has great historical and landscape importance, being considered a symbolic species of the southern region. Currently, *Araucaria angustifolia* is in danger of extinction, mainly due to the loss and fragmentation of its natural environments and the historical exploitation of its populations.

Preserving araucaria means protecting a tree on the ground, including Brazils entire natural, scientific, cultural and environmental heritage. Planting, conserving and studying this species means contributing to the recovery of forests, to the protection of fauna and to which future generations can know and value one of the most representative trees of Brazilian biodiversity.