Panama: Refuge of unique mangrove species
forest and lake
Panama is a privileged country with unmatched natural wealth, particularly standing out in the diversity of mangroves. According to the World Mangrove Atlas, Panama It is home to the greatest variety of mangrove species on the American continent, with 12 of the 65 pure species identified in the world. Among these, five species are especially unique and vital for the country's ecosystem: the black mangrove, the white mangrove, the red mangrove, the piñuelo mangrove and the button mangrove.
Ecological and Economic Importance of Mangroves
Mangroves are essential to the health of the environment and the local economy. These ecosystems protect coasts against natural disasters such as hurricanes and storm surges and play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon. Additionally, mangroves are vital to biodiversity, providing habitat and food for a variety of species, from birds such as pelicans and cormorants, to mollusks, crustaceans and fish in their early stages of life.
Benefits for the Human Community
The value of mangroves extends beyond their ecological benefits. A socioeconomic study conducted by Conservation International Panama in Oriente Chiricano revealed that in just 13,000 hectares of mangrove, the environmental services they provide generate more than 27 million dollars annually. These services include fishing, coastal protection, carbon capture, and tourism, all essential to the local economy. Economic activities associated with mangroves include fishing, aquaculture, salt production, extraction of raw materials for construction, charcoal production and shell capture, as well as tourism.
Challenges and Conservation
Currently, the Ministry of the Environment is working on a specific mangrove law to consolidate and update the scattered regulations on this ecosystem, adapting them to current reality and needs.
With more than 165,000 hectares of mangrove, Panama It stands out on the American continent for its mangrove biodiversity, which plays a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Protection and management sustainable financing model of these resources are essential to ensure their conservation and the multiple benefits they provide to present and future generations. We promote tourism development in Panama, prioritizing the protection of nature. Get to know our natural wonders and celebrate your event at the Panama Convention Center. Quote with us!