A study conducted by the **Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED)**, the **Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR)**, and the **Universidad Autónoma de Madrid** has revealed the surprising biodiversity of the **Cordillera de Talamanca**. The research identified [67 species of plants](https://noticiasambientales.com/ciencia/encuentran-ejemplares-de-una-planta-endemica-de-galapagos-en-peligro-critico/), of which **nine have high ecological value and three are endemic**, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world.
The study focused on **five peatlands**, wetlands where decomposing organic matter accumulates, known as peat. These ecosystems are located in the **macizo de la Muerte**, between **El Empalme and the cerro Bellavista**, within the **Parque Nacional Tapantí**, at altitudes between **2,400 and 3,100 meters above sea level**.
Of the five peatlands analyzed, **three are within protected areas** (Salsipuedes and cerro Paramillo) and **two are outside of them**. According to the researcher **Frank González Brenes** from UNED, the results confirm that conservation measures in protected areas were effective in preserving these ecosystems.
The scientists recorded **67 plant species**, distributed in **38 families and 55 genera**. The **cerro Paramillo** was the site with the highest diversity (**36 species**), followed by **Salsipuedes** (**35 species**). In contrast, the **Quetzales-2** area, outside the protected areas, presented the lowest diversity (**19 species**).
## Cinco especies fueron encontradas en todas las turberas estudiadas:
– **Heterodermia vulgaris**: un liquen común en humedales tropicales.
– **Juncus effusus**: conocido como “junco de esferas”, alcanza hasta 100 cm de altura y tiene flores amarillas.
– **Rhynchospora schaffneri**: una planta propia de humedales con flores pequeñas.
– **Sphagnum recurvum**: un musgo característico de zonas montañosas.
– **Vaccinium floribundum**: arbusto conocido como “mortiño”, con flores rosadas, violetas y moradas.
## Especies clave y en peligro
The **40.3%** of the recorded species have high ecological value, including **nine key species**. One of them, **Puya dasylirioides**, is classified as threatened. This terrestrial bromeliad is endemic to the **Cordillera de Talamanca**, especially in areas near the **cerro de la Muerte**.
Additionally, the **roble Quercus costaricensis** was identified, documented in Costa Rica in 1996. Its population has not yet been determined, so its discovery in this area reinforces [the need for its conservation](https://noticiasambientales.com/bienestar/la-planta-con-un-potente-poder-curativo-que-puedes-tener-en-tu-jardin/).
Among the **three endemic species** found, the following stand out:
– **Puya dasylirioides** (terrestrial bromeliad).
– **Pentacalia firmipes**, a shrub exclusive to Cerro de la Muerte.
– **Xyris nigrescens**, a herb with yellow flowers and dark foliage.
## Tecnología para la conservación
The study was carried out in **two phases**. First, the researchers conducted **field samplings** using the **Floristic Value Index (FVI)** to assess species diversity in the peatlands. Then, they used **Geographic Information Systems (GIS)** to create **detailed maps** with georeferenced data.
Furthermore, **five drone flights** at **130 meters high** were conducted, capturing high-resolution images. These photographs were analyzed with specialized software to identify vegetation patterns and assess changes in the landscape.
The results of the study highlight the natural richness of the **Cordillera de Talamanca** and the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems. The identification of endemic and endangered species reinforces the need to strengthen conservation strategies in these areas of high ecological value.
## Una cordillera con una biodiversidad única y especies endémicas
The **Cordillera de Talamanca** is known as a **biodiversity hotspot**, as it boasts a wealth of species and unique levels of endemism. This place is recognized for harboring a large number of endemic plant species, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. This is due to its **wide variety of habitats**, which are home to a great diversity of wildlife, including many rare and endangered species.
Within the fauna, there are **several species that stand out**, such as the Central American tapir, **the puma, and the jaguar**, which find refuge in the region’s dense forests. As for birds, the situation is equally impressive with species like the **quetzal**, known for its vibrant plumage, thriving in the cloud forests. In fact, it is precisely this wide variety of species that makes the Cordillera de Talamanca crucial for ongoing **conservation efforts**.
The **ecological importance** of this place led to the establishment of numerous protected areas, including national parks, **wildlife refuges, and indigenous reserves**. One of the most prominent is the Reserva Cordillera de Talamanca-La Amistad/Parque Nacional La Amistad, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which spans the border between Costa Rica and Panama. This particular park is considered **the first binational biosphere reserve** and plays a vital role in **protecting the biodiversity and ecosystems** of the region.
Source: Nación.com
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