Chocón Machacas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chocón MachacasProtected Biotope |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
|
|
The reserve has a Caribbean manatee population
|
|
| Location | Izabal, Guatemala |
| Area | 62.65 km2 (24.19 sq mi) |
| Established | Decreto Legislativo 4-89 |
| Visitors | allowed |
| Operator | CECON / USAC |
The Chocón Machacas Protected Biotope is a special nature reserve in eastern Guatemala. It is a safe place for animals and plants. This important area helps protect the environment. It is located near the town of Livingston. The biotope covers a large area of thick forests. It includes parts of the Chocón Machacas River and the northern shores of the Río Dulce-Golfete Dulce system.
This biotope is very important for one main reason. It is one of the last places in Guatemala where the endangered Caribbean manatee lives. Manatees are large, gentle sea mammals. They need special habitats to survive.
Contents
What is a Protected Biotope?
A protected biotope is a natural area. It is set aside to protect its unique plants and animals. The Chocón Machacas Biotope was created for this purpose. It helps keep the natural balance of the area. This ensures that wildlife can thrive safely.
Where is Chocón Machacas Located?
The biotope is in the Izabal region of Guatemala. It is found in the municipality of Livingston. This area is known for its beautiful rivers and dense forests. The coordinates are 15°45′20″N 88°52′24″W / 15.755464°N 88.873243°W.
Rivers and Waterways
The reserve includes the lower parts of the Chocón Machacas River. It also covers the northern shores of the Río Dulce and Golfete Dulce. These waterways are vital for the local ecosystem. They provide homes for many water creatures.
Why is This Area Important?
The Chocón Machacas river and Golfete Dulce are very special. They are one of the few places left in Guatemala where the Caribbean manatee can live. These gentle giants are facing serious threats. Protecting their home helps them survive.
Meet the Manatee
The Caribbean manatee (Trichechus manatus) is a large, slow-moving mammal. It lives in water. Manatees are often called "sea cows." They eat plants found in the water. They are very peaceful animals. Sadly, their numbers are decreasing. This is why places like Chocón Machacas are so important.
Why Manatees Need Protection
Manatees are an endangered species. This means there are not many left in the wild. They face dangers like habitat loss and boat collisions. The Chocón Machacas Biotope gives them a safe place. Here, they can feed and raise their young without as much danger.
Who Manages the Biotope?
The Chocón Machacas Protected Biotope is managed by two groups. They are the CECON and the USAC. CECON stands for the Center for Conservation Studies. USAC is the University of San Carlos of Guatemala. These groups work together to protect the biotope. They make sure the rules are followed. They also study the animals and plants there.
When Was it Established?
The biotope was officially created in 1989. This happened through a law called Decreto Legislativo 4-89. This law made it a protected area. It ensured that the manatees and their habitat would be safe for the future.
Visiting Chocón Machacas
People are allowed to visit the Chocón Machacas Protected Biotope. It is a great place to learn about nature. Visitors can see the beautiful forests and waterways. They might even spot a manatee! Visiting helps support the conservation efforts.
