El Yunque National Forest, located in northeastern Puerto Rico, is home to a diverse array of tree species, with over 240 native species and 47 introduced species. The forest is divided into four primary forest types, each with its unique tree species adapted to the specific conditions of their habitats.
What are the Dominant Tree Species in the Tabonuco Forest?
The Tabonuco Forest, found at elevations between 100-2,000 feet above sea level, is dominated by the Tabonuco (Dacryodes excelsa) and Ausubo (Manilkara bidentata) trees. Other common trees in this forest type include Trumpet Wood (Cecropia peltata), Guaraguao (Dacryodes excelsa), Laurel Sabino (Magnolia splendens), and giant tree ferns.
What are the Dominant Tree Species in the Palo Colorado Forest?
The Palo Colorado Forest, found at elevations between 1,970-2,950 feet above sea level, is dominated by the Palo Colorado (Cyrilla racemiflora) tree. Other common trees in this forest type include Caimitillo (Micropholis garcinifolia), Green Caimitillo (Micropholis garciniaefolia), Yarumo (Cecropia peltata), Caribbean Azafran (Hedyosmum arborencens), and Sierra Palm (Prestoea montana).
What are the Dominant Tree Species in the Sierra Palm Forest?
The Sierra Palm Forest, found at elevations above 1,958 feet above sea level, is dominated by the Sierra Palm (Prestoea montana) tree. This palm tree is found throughout the national forest but thrives in the shallower soil of higher elevations.
What are the Characteristics of the Dwarf Forest?
The Dwarf Forest, found at elevations above 2,500 feet above sea level, is characterized by stunted trees and shrubs due to constant rain, strong winds, and cloud cover. Common trees in this forest type include Nemoca (Guarea glabra), Roble de Sierra (Podocarpus coriaceus), Limoncillo (Zanthoxylum martinicense), Guayabota (Psidium littorale), and Camasey (Clusia rosea).
What are Some Unique and Endemic Tree Species in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is home to several unique and endemic tree species, including:
| Tree Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Palo Colorado (Cyrilla racemiflora) | This tree can live for hundreds of years and provides critical habitat for the endangered Puerto Rican parrot. |
| Sierra Palm (Prestoea montana) | Dominant in the Sierra Palm Forest, this palm tree is found throughout the national forest but thrives in the shallower soil of higher elevations. |
| Tabonuco (Dacryodes excelsa) | A dominant species in the Tabonuco Forest, this tree is known for its tall stature, reaching over 120 feet in height. |
What are the Ecological Roles of the Trees in El Yunque National Forest?
The tree species in El Yunque National Forest play crucial roles in maintaining the health and balance of the forest ecosystem:
- Habitat Provision: They provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Puerto Rican parrot and other birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals.
- Soil Stabilization: Tree roots help stabilize soil, preventing erosion and landslides, especially in areas with high rainfall.
- Carbon Sequestration: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to climate regulation.
What are the Conservation Efforts and Educational Programs in El Yunque National Forest?
The USDA Forest Service actively manages El Yunque National Forest, balancing conservation with timber extraction, mining, road and water resource development. Additionally, the forest has been studied extensively by biologists and conservationists, with programs focused on documenting and preserving the unique flora and fauna of the region.
References:
– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Yunque_National_Forest
– https://www.nationalforests.org/our-forests/light-and-seed-magazine/unique-trees-on-our-national-forests
– https://sweetgum.nybg.org/science/the-hand-lens/explore/narratives-details/?irn=7507
– https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/elyunque/learning/nature-science/