Peruvian Amazon (IMAGE) Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute Caption New evidence challenges the idea that the Amazon basin was densely inhabited before European arrival. Credit Rhett A. Butler / mongabay.com Usage Restrictions Only for use in stories related to this press release. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.