Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve is a protected natural area in Chiapas state of southern Mexico. The reserve protects 3312 km2 of the Lacandon Jungle, a lowland tropical rainforest.
Coordinates16°40′N 91°00′W[2]
Area3,312 km2 (1,279 sq mi)
DesignationUNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve (international) biosphere reserve (national)
| Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve | |
|---|---|
IUCN category VI (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources)[1] | |
Laguna Miramar in Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve | |
  Location of Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve in Mexico | |
| Location | Chiapas, Mexico |
| Coordinates | 16°40′N 91°00′W[2] |
| Area | 3,312 km2 (1,279 sq mi) |
| Designation | UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve (international) biosphere reserve (national) |
| Designated | 1979 (international) 2000 (national) |
| Administrator | National Commission of Natural Protected Areas |
Geography
Montes Azules Biosphere reserve adjoins Lacan-Tun Biosphere Reserve on the east, and is bounded by the Lacantun River, a tributary of the Usumacinta, on the south.
Flora and fauna
The reserve contains 500 species of trees.[2]
More than 390 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve, almost half of all known species in Mexico. There are 116 species of mammals present, including the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) and northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana). Native reptiles include Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii).[2]
