Coco's Island Costa Rica: A Natural Treasure

Cocos Island, located in the Pacific Ocean about 535 km off the coast of Costa Rica, is a true natural paradise. Recognized as A UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and designated as a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention in 1998 , this island is notable for its unique biodiversity and its role in global marine conservation.

 

History and Significance of Cocos Island National Park (PNIC)

Created in 1978, Cocos Island National Park (PNIC) covers a total area of ​​209,506 hectares, of which 207,159 are marine. This park was designed to preserve the natural state of the island and its marine environment. With its strategic location in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, Cocos Island significantly expands Costa Rica's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Among the island's international recognitions are:

1. Natural Heritage of Humanity – UNESCO (1997)
2. Protected Wetland of International Importance – Ramsar (1998)
3. Historical-Architectural Heritage of Costa Rica (2002)
4. Global Ocean Refuge – Blue Park

 

Unique Biodiversity and Endemic Species of Cocos Island

Cocos Island is a true biodiversity sanctuary, notable for its wealth of endemic species, those found only here. The following have been identified in Cocos Island National Park:

• 235 plant species , 70 of which are endemic.
• 362 species of insects , 64 of them exclusive to the island.
• 150 bird species , including four endemic ones such as the flycatcher, the cuckoo and the Cocos Island finch.
• More than 250 species of fish and 17 types of corals in its waters.
• 45 endemic marine species , representing 50% of Costa Rica's marine endemism.

This island ecosystem is home to impressive biodiversity, including hammerhead sharks, whitetip sharks, manta rays, tuna, and parrotfish, as well as a wide variety of crustaceans and mollusks. The concentration of endemism on the island is exceptional, with biodiversity levels up to 15 times higher than those recorded on the mainland.

The uniqueness of endemic species lies in their vulnerability: by inhabiting only a specific area, such as Cocos Island, they are more exposed to environmental threats and habitat alteration. The protection of this unique environment is not only crucial for the conservation of these species, but also positions Cocos Island as a global epicenter of biological diversity and a benchmark in marine conservation.

 

The Role of the Cocos Marine Conservation Area (CMCA)

The Cocos Marine Conservation Area (CMCA) is one of the eleven Conservation Areas of the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) in Costa Rica. Its mission is to manage and conserve the natural resources of the region, which includes the Cocos Island National Park. (PNIC) and its surrounding marine areas, promoting sustainability and scientific knowledge.

 

Programs and Key Areas of the Cocos Marine Conservation Area

1. Cocos Island National Park : Main protected area of ​​the ACMC.
2. Seamounts Marine Management Area : Created in 2011, it protects marine ecosystems essential for birds, turtles, sharks and migratory species.

 

Diving on Cocos Island: An Unparalleled Experience

Cocos Island, located about 550 kilometers off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and unparalleled marine biodiversity, the island offers some of the best diving in the world. Its underwater landscapes and the presence of iconic species make it a dream destination for any diver.

 

The Best Diving Spots on Cocos Island

• Bajo Alcyone : This spot is ideal for spotting schools of hammerhead sharks. With a depth of 30 meters, it's perfect for experienced divers. Eagle rays, barracudas, tuna, and moray eels are also common.
• Manuelita Deep : Popular for its rich marine life, here you can observe hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, eagle rays, sea turtles, and reef fish. With a depth of 40 meters, it's a fascinating place for advanced explorers.
• Two Friends : This spot stands out for its abundance of hammerhead sharks, accompanied by a wide variety of marine species.
• Punta María : With depths of 20 meters, this site combines coral reefs and a wide variety of reef fish. Hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, and eagle rays are also common.
• Viking Rock : One of the deepest spots, reaching 60 meters, it's an exclusive spot for experienced divers. Hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, and an impressive diversity of fish can be found here.

 

Marine Species You Can Find on Cocos Island

Diving on Cocos Island offers the opportunity to see a diversity of marine species that few areas in the world can match:

• Hammerhead sharks : Emblem of the island, hammerhead sharks often form large schools, creating an unforgettable experience for divers.
• Manta rays : These elegant creatures impress with their size and grace as they swim in the deep waters.
• Dolphins and Whales : Bottlenose and spotted dolphins are common in the area, along with seasonal sightings of humpback whales and orcas.
• Sea Turtles : The island's beaches are home to green and leatherback turtles, especially during nesting season.
• Eagle rays : With their characteristic spots, these rays stand out for their elegance and beauty.
• Tropical and pelagic fish : From angelfish and parrotfish to jacks and tuna, the variety of fish is dazzling. Huge schools of pelagic fish also add a unique visual spectacle.

 

A World-Class Destination

Cocos Island is not only renowned for its marine biodiversity, but also for its underwater landscapes, which offer an incomparable diving experience. From hammerhead sharks to vibrant fish, every dive on the island is a unique adventure. This paradise is, without a doubt, one of the best places to explore the underwater world at its best.

 

Coral Reefs on Cocos Island: Importance and Conservation

Coral reefs are true treasures of biodiversity. In Cocos Island National Park, these ecosystems stand out not only for their beauty but also for their crucial role in marine life and their importance to the environmental health of the Eastern Tropical Pacific.

 

Importance of Coral Reefs

• Marine biodiversity : Approximately 25% of global marine life depends on coral reefs at some point in its life cycle. On Cocos Island, Reefs are a refuge for unique species , such as the  Pavona xarifae and the Leptoseris scabra , that have only been found here.
• Ecosystem services : These ecosystems provide food, coastal protection, and tourism income to millions of people around the world. On Cocos Island, the reefs support entire food webs, from small herbivores to top predators like sharks.
• Ecological function : Reefs are key feeding, cleaning and resting sites for large pelagic species, reinforcing their importance in the marine connectivity of the Eastern Pacific.

 

Threats and Resilience

Cocos Island's reefs have faced significant challenges , such as coral bleaching events associated with the El Niño phenomenon. For example, during the 1982-1983 event, 96.5% of the coral was affected. However, thanks to the protection offered by the National Park, these reefs have shown a remarkable capacity for recovery , maintaining outstanding ecosystem health in the face of adverse conditions.

 

Current major threats include:

• Rising temperatures : High ocean temperatures and El Niño events intensified by climate change continue to be a challenge.
• Fishing pressure : Although commercially valuable species are protected within the park, fishing pressure in nearby areas indirectly impacts reef health.

 

An Ecosystem in Research and Conservation

Cocos Island's reefs have been the subject of scientific studies since the 1980s, led by researchers such as Dr. Jorge Cortés. These studies have shown:

• Recovery of living coral : Since 1987, thanks to the park's management and conservation measures, corals have shown a remarkable recovery.
• Featured Species : The reefs are home to a high density of lobsters of the genus Panulirus and the sea cucumber Isostichopus fuscus , species of high commercial value.
• Reef threats : 16% of the island's reef fish species are threatened, according to the IUCN Red List, underscoring the need for continued conservation efforts.

 

A Pillar of Marine Connectivity

Cocos Island is a cornerstone of larval connectivity between both ends of the Pacific. Its strategic location allows ocean currents to transport organisms and nutrients vital for the regeneration of ecosystems across the ocean.

 

Cocos Island Frequently Asked Questions

 

Interesting Facts about Cocos Island

• Inspiration for Jurassic Park: The beauty and mystery of the island inspired Michael Crichton for his famous novel “Jurassic Park.”
• Pirate History: The island served as a refuge for pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries. It is rumored that William Thompson's Treasure is buried on the island.

 

In Namubak is Committed to Conservation

At Namubak, our commitment goes beyond fashion; we are allies of nature and active defenders of unique places like Cocos Island. We firmly believe that every garment we design can be a step toward a more sustainable planet. Therefore, we combine ethical fashion with environmental education to inspire and empower our community to care for the environment.

Whether through the use of sustainable materials or our conservation and ecotourism initiatives, we work to protect Costa Rica's natural treasures. Discover how you can be part of this movement and join our mission to care for the planet with style and purpose. Together we can make a difference!