Costa Rica Species
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Beaches and Dunes
MixedIn ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow.

Beaches and Dunes

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Alberto Zuluaga

Detailed Description

Beaches and dunes are dynamic ecosystems located at the interface between land and sea, formed by the accumulation of sediments transported by ocean currents and wind. Dunes act as fundamental natural barriers, protecting inland habitats from storm surges and tides. The vegetation here is halophytic and pioneering, such as Ipomoea pes-caprae, whose roots stabilize the sand. This habitat is of critical importance for the reproduction of marine species, serving as the primary nesting site for sea turtles (leatherback, hawksbill, and green) and foraging areas for migratory coastal birds.

Climate Metrics

Altitude (m)Elevation above sea level in metres. Higher altitude means lower temperatures and pressure, shaping which species can survive.0 – 45 m
Precipitation (mm/year)Total annual rainfall in millimetres. A key driver of vegetation type — tropical rainforests typically exceed 2 000 mm/year.1,200 – 3,800 mm
Temperature (°C)Average annual temperature range in degrees Celsius. Together with precipitation, it defines the Holdridge life zone and resident species.24 – 35 °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).Saltwater

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

TortugueroMarino BallenaSanta RosaGandoca-Manzanillo

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.

Environment characterized by high insolation and constant salinity. The climate is typically dry and hot during the day, with a strong influence from sea breezes that regulate night temperatures. Plants face water stress and persistent winds.

Record Completeness
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