The Lacandon Jungle of Chiapas, Mexico
View PDF | Print View
by: RobertNickel | Total views: 18 | Word Count: 452
The climate in the Mexican state of Chiapas is humid and tropical, largely due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the Equator. The northern areas of the state can experience up to 120 inches of rain per year, while the southern areas get about 80 inches of rain. Thus it is the north eastern part of Chiapas that is home to the Lacandon Jungle.
Approximately 1.9 million hectares of rainforest span across Chiapas, into Guatemala and over to the Yucatan Peninsula. Many indigenous groups live in the Lacandond jungle, and unfortunately are responsible for severe deforestation. Trying to escape the pitfalls of the outside world, native peoples are retreating to the jungle and clearing land in order to plant crops. Sadly, the soil is unable to be successful beyond three or four harvests, and farmers are forced to clear more land for more crops. This troubling cycle results in almost 5% deforestation of the Lacandon jungle per year.
Fortunately there is the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, a 331,200 hectare site. The World Bank's Global Environmental Fund financed the reserve during the early 1990's, as an effort to balance habitat conservation and the demand for research. Today the reserve is home to 1500 tree species, 33% of Mexican bird species, 25% of Mexican animal species and a whopping 44% of diurnal butterfly species.
Among the protected populations of the reserve are humans as well, specifically the native tribe of Zapatistas. Before the reserve was designated, the Zapatista people sought and were given, legal protection from removal of their heritage land. They are few in numbers, yet the nominal development the Zapatista engage in has already had a lasting effect upon the reserve. At least three animal and bird species have disappeared from the region, and more are expected. The balance between the preservation of a rare and irreplaceable ecosystem, and a dying culture with an ancient lineage is certainly delicate. Each entity has a right to survive beyond the 21st century, yet they seem to be at odds with each other.
Also within the borders of the Lacandon jungle are a number of significant Mayan ruins. Many are fully excavated, some are still in the midst of being unearthed. One of the largest is Palenque, once a sprawling Mayan city. It has been dated as far back as 100 BCE, but fell an was absorbed by the jungle around 800 CE. Despite its size, Palenque is considered a medium sized Mayan city. As of today one square mile has been excavated, but archaeologists estimate less than 10% of the entire city area has been explored. Even so, what has been reclaimed from the jungle is available for discovery for travelers, and should not be missed!
About the Author
BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on cancun all inclusive at BookIt.com!
Rating: Not yet rated
Login to vote
