Endemic Plants

Biodiversity in Costa Rica

Although Costa Rica covers less than 0.03% of the earth's surface, the tropical area is home to more than 500,000 different species. THe geography of Costa Rica; bordered by two oceans, containing multiple mountain ranges, and its warm temperatures. This allows a large vareity of species to inhabit the areas of Costa Rica.

Plants of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is home to greatest diversity of plants in the world. With over a quarter of Costa Rica devoted to the preservation of these beuatiful environments, it is no suprise every nook and cranny of the rainforest is decorated with the color and beauty of plants and animals. There are six endemic plants to Costa Rica, but on the plant section, above, I will be talking about a small variety of Costa Rican native plants.

Epiphytes

One of many special characteristics of the rainforest are epiphytes. As you read in the rainforest section, you may have found out that Costa Rica's topsoil is extremely thin. Epiphytes are specially adapted for the probles the the Neo-Tropical Rainforest. Instead of living low on the ground, with the limited top-soil and light, the epiphytes dock onto a tree, producing a commensalism relationship. While the tree isn't harmed, the epiphyte gains more light, and even water and nutrients to keep the plant healthy.

Buttresses and Prop Roots

Butress Roots are large roots that surround all sides of a shallowly rooted tree. (top soil.) Buttress Roots are most commonly found on almost every mangroves, and they assist in helping the tree remain stable and gather a larger range of nutrients. Buttress and Prop Roots help the tree ramin sturdy in the thin top soil, allowing the tree to grow up to 30 feet and the roots spread 100 feet above the surface and 100 feet below the surface.