some of the most important floral families in the region include myrtaceae, lauraceae, leguminosae, rubiaceae, orchidaceae, compositae, euphorbiaceae, and sapotaceae. visitors are often drawn to the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of the atlantic forest, including by orchids, bromeliads, jacarandá-da-bahia, and palms.

the region is also home to the world's only population of golden lion tamarin monkeys, one of the most endangered species in the world.