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Natural
Systems |
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Biodiversity
Thousands
of plant species thrive in Costa Rica, whose ecosystems range
from rainforests to mangrove swamps. In its tropical climate,
trees grow rapidly, orchids and other beautiful flowers flourish,
and animals live interdependently with the plants. Animal species
include mammals, ranging from monkeys to the rarely-seen tapir,
insects, from mosquitoes to brightly-colored butterflies, and
a variety of amphibians and reptiles. (The snakes are not often
found, even by someone looking for them.)
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Our
site is centered on the delta of the Rio Terraba in southwestern
Costa Rica. Much of the flat land was cleared and planted with bananas.
Here, work must be done before biodiversity can return. Pesticides
used in banana cultivation left copper sulfide residues that inhibit
plants from growing naturally, with the exception of limited types
of palms.
Although
the plantations cover much of the delta, other plant communities
intersect the area. Tropical forests grow at higher elevations,
and wetlands, especially mangrove swamps, weave fluid patterns
along the coast. Several national parks and reserves are nearby,
each with its own valuable resources. Closest to the site is Corcovado
National Park on the Osa Peninsula. It provides hiking through
areas such as a mountainous cloud forest, and beaches where monkeys
and other animals may be seen.
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Our proposal
allows travelers to explore and enjoy some of Costa Rica's beautiful
natural systems. On our site, one can experience the diversity of
trees in the tropical forest and the ever-changing landscape of
the floodplain. For those who want to venture further, access is
provided up to the mountains of the Talamanca Range and out to the
ocean through the mangroves.
For additional information, please see the Database.
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