Costa Rica Species
Back
Oak Forest
TerrestrialIn ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow.

Oak Forest

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Gerardo Venegas

Detailed Description

The oak forest is a mystical and ancestral ecosystem of the Costa Rican highlands, dominated by colossal oaks (Quercus copeyensis and Quercus costaricensis) that can reach 50 meters in height and live for centuries. These forests are characterized by a dense cover of mosses, ferns, and lichens that wrap around every branch, creating a unique microclimate. They function as true water towers, capturing moisture from the clouds and regulating the flow of the country's most important watersheds. Biodiversity here is highly endemic, being the preferred sanctuary of the Resplendent Quetzal and various species of salamanders and amphibians adapted to the mountain cold.

Climate Metrics

Altitude (m)Elevation above sea level in metres. Higher altitude means lower temperatures and pressure, shaping which species can survive.2,000 – 3,200 m
Precipitation (mm/year)Total annual rainfall in millimetres. A key driver of vegetation type — tropical rainforests typically exceed 2 000 mm/year.2,000 – 4,500 mm
Temperature (°C)Average annual temperature range in degrees Celsius. Together with precipitation, it defines the Holdridge life zone and resident species.5 – 15 °C

Basic Identification

Habitat TypeBroad ecological classification: Terrestrial (land-based), Aquatic (water-based), or Mixed (both).Terrestrial
Holdridge Life ZoneHoldridge Life Zone System — classifies world climates into discrete zones based on biotemperature, annual precipitation, and humidity. Developed by Leslie Holdridge in 1947.Other

Locations in Costa RicaGeographic regions of Costa Rica where this habitat or species has been documented.

Cerro de la MuerteSan Gerardo de DotaParque Nacional TapantíCordillera de Talamanca

Best Season to VisitBest times of year to visit or observe this area at its most biodiverse.

DecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarchApril

Climate & EnvironmentTypical weather patterns, temperature ranges, and seasonal rainfall affecting this location.

Cold and cloudy mountain climate. Temperatures can drop below 5°C during the night and rarely exceed 18°C during the day. Cloudiness is persistent, causing constant horizontal precipitation that maintains soil and vegetation moisture.

Record Completeness
36%
Coming soon