Costa Rica's Biodiversity: A Natural Treasure for the World

Costa Rica It is considered a jewel of biodiversity worldwide. Although covers only 0.03% of the Earth's surface , it is home to approximately 6% of the known species on the planet . With With over 500,000 species , of which only 18% have been identified, this small country is a paradise for nature and conservation lovers.

Why Does Costa Rica Have So Much Biodiversity?

There are several reasons that explain the biological wealth from Costa Rica:

1. Geographic Location : Being located between Between North and South America , Costa Rica has served as a natural bridge for species migrating between continents. This has allowed for the mixing and diversification of flora and fauna.
2. Two Coasts and Diverse Ecosystems : With coasts on the Caribbean and the Pacific , the country boasts multiple ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to mangroves and coral reefs. This creates a great diversity of habitats for terrestrial and marine species.
3. Variety of Altitudes : The mountainous geography of Costa Rica includes altitudes that vary from sea level to 3,820 meters , which favors the creation of diverse microclimates, ideal for a wide range of plants and animals.

The Importance of Biodiversity in Costa Rica

The importance of biodiversity in Costa Rica lies in its role as an ecological bastion that contributes to the balance of the world's ecosystems.

The Diversity of Ecosystems in Costa Rica

The country offers an impressive variety of ecosystems, from its lush tropical forests and mystics cloud forests even its fragile mangroves and vibrant Coral reefs . Each of these ecosystems is home to a wide range of species that make Costa Rica one of the most biodiverse destinations on the planet.

Tropical Forests

The tropical forests of Costa Rica, like those of Hunchback and Tortuguero , are home to iconic species such as the jaguar , the puma , and the famous Howler monkey . These forests, with their dense vegetation and rich biodiversity, are essential to the global ecological balance and have been protected through an extensive network of national parks.

Cloud Forests

At higher altitudes are found the cloud forests , like the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest , where visitors can witness the natural spectacle of resplendent quetzals. This cool, humid ecosystem is known for its epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants) and its unique climatic conditions, which support rare and endemic species.

Mangroves and Reefs

In coastal areas, the mangroves of Costa Rica provide refuge to numerous species of birds, fish and crustaceans. These coastal ecosystems, together with the coral reefs from the Caribbean and the Pacific, They are vital not only for marine biodiversity , but also for protecting coasts from erosion and natural disasters.

National Parks: Protecting the Future of Biodiversity

Since the creation of the first nature reserve, Cabo Blanco , in 1963, Costa Rica has made enormous progress in protecting its natural resources. Today, more than 25% of its territory is under protection, through national parks and biological reserves managed by the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) . Among the most notable are:

• Corcovado National Park : Known as “the most biologically intense place on the planet,” this park on the Osa Peninsula is home to unique species, including jaguars, pumas, and macaws.
• La Amistad International Park : Shared with Panama, it is a World Heritage Site and one of the largest protected areas in Central America.
• Las Baulas National Marine Park : It is the most important nesting site for the leatherback turtle , an endangered species.

World Heritage Sites of Costa Rica

Costa Rica has three declared natural sites UNESCO World Heritage Site :

1. Reserves of the Talamanca-La Amistad Mountain Range
2. Cocos Island
3. Guanacaste Conservation Area

These sites not only preserve local biodiversity but are essential for scientific research and sustainable ecotourism. Learn about the conservation areas of Costa Rica .

Emblematic Species: Animals of Costa Rica

The diversity of its ecosystems makes Costa Rica home to some of the world's most iconic species, such as:

• Quetzal : It lives in tropical forests, particularly cloud forests. It can be found in various parts of the country such as Montverde and Los Quetzales National Park
  
• Jaguar : The king of the  Costa Rican felines in tropical forests. The jaguar is a solitary and opportunistic hunter. Its diet in Costa Rica includes a variety of mammals, such as peccaries and tapirs.
  
• Leatherback Turtle : A critically endangered species, which uses Costa Rica's beaches for nesting. On the Pacific coast they nest during the months of September to March , especially on the Naranjo beaches, within the Santa Rosa National Park, as well as on the Grande beaches in Guanacaste and Playa Langosta, as well as Playa Ventanas. On the Caribbean coast, the season is from February to August, with March to July being the best.
  
• Manatee : They are found in the canals of Tortuguero and the San Juan River on the northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, is a national symbol of conservation.

The Impact of Climate Change and Invasive Species

Climate change and the introduction of invasive species are two of the greatest challenges facing Costa Rica's biodiversity. Rising temperatures and the modification of natural habitats are affecting several native species , while invasive species are competing for limited resources, putting local populations at risk.

In At Namubak , we are committed to educating and raising awareness about these challenges, and we collaborate with projects that seek to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect natural ecosystems. As is the case with The Clean Wave Foundation

Experience Biodiversity in Costa Rica with Namubak

If you want to live a unique and authentic experience, exploring the natural wealth of Costa Rica in a sustainable way, Namubak invites you to immerse yourself in this ecological paradise. The ecotourism and conservation They allow you not only to enjoy natural beauty, but also to contribute to the preservation of these ecosystems for future generations.