[2] The forest is in the state's coastal plain at 80 metres (260 ft) above sea level.

The area used for experimental purposes until the end of the 1970s is in a relatively advanced stage of regeneration of the native forest.

The Dinoponera quadriceps ant is endemic, one of the world's largest at 3 centimetres (1.2 in).

This ant is not found in areas disturbed by human actions, so is a good indicator of a preserved environment.

[1] The Nísia Floresta National Forest was created by decree on 27 September 2001 and is administered by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio).