Costa Rica Species
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Mangroves
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Mangroves

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Anonymous Curator

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Under Review

Last modified by

Gerardo Venegas

Detailed Description

Mangroves are coastal transition ecosystems of incalculable ecological importance, formed by mangrove trees that have evolved to survive in high salinity conditions and low-oxygen soils. In Costa Rica, species such as the Red Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) with its characteristic aerial roots and the Black Mangrove (Avicennia germinans) stand out. These forests act as biological nurseries, protecting the juvenile stages of countless species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Furthermore, they are extremely efficient carbon sinks, storing up to ten times more carbon than terrestrial forests, making them fundamental allies in mitigating global warming and protecting against coastal erosion.

Climate Metrics

Altitude (m)Elevation above sea level in metres. Higher altitude means lower temperatures and pressure, shaping which species can survive.0 – 5 m
Precipitation (mm/year)Total annual rainfall in millimetres. A key driver of vegetation type — tropical rainforests typically exceed 2 000 mm/year.1,500 – 5,000 mm
Temperature (°C)Average annual temperature range in degrees Celsius. Together with precipitation, it defines the Holdridge life zone and resident species.24 – 34 °C

Basic Identification

Habitat TypeBroad ecological classification: Terrestrial (land-based), Aquatic (water-based), or Mixed (both).Mixed
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
Water TypeFor aquatic habitats: whether the water body is freshwater, marine (saltwater), or brackish (mixture of both).Brackish

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

Térraba-SierpeDamas IslandGandoca-ManzanilloNicoya GulfTamarindo

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

JanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilJulyAugust

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

Coastal tropical climate, warm and humid. Temperatures are constant throughout the year. The ecosystem is subject to tidal dynamics, creating a daily fluctuation in water levels and salinity.

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