Federal Dependencies of Venezuela facts for kids
The Federal Dependencies of Venezuela (which in Spanish is Dependencias Federales de Venezuela) is a special part of Venezuela. It is not a state, but a group of islands, islets, and rocks located in the Caribbean Sea. These islands are directly managed by the national government of Venezuela. There are about 600 islands and landforms that make up this territory.
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About the Federal Dependencies
The Federal Dependencies are unique because they are not organized like the other states of Venezuela. Instead, they are controlled by the central government. This means decisions about these islands are made in the capital city, Caracas. Most of these islands are small and not many people live on them permanently.
What is a Dependent Territory?
A dependent territory is a piece of land that is not fully independent. It is usually managed by another country. In this case, the Federal Dependencies are managed by Venezuela. They are important for Venezuela's control over its waters and resources in the Caribbean Sea.
Geography and Islands
The Federal Dependencies stretch across a large area of the Caribbean Sea. They are located north of the Venezuelan mainland. This area includes many different types of islands. Some are large and have small towns, while others are tiny rocks.
Main Island Groups
Some of the most well-known island groups include:
- Los Roques Archipelago: This is a very popular place for tourists. It is known for its beautiful clear waters, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. Many people visit Los Roques for diving, snorkeling, and relaxing.
- La Tortuga Island: This is the second-largest island in Venezuela. It is mostly uninhabited, meaning very few people live there. It is known for its natural beauty and quiet beaches.
- Aves Island: This small island is important for scientific research. It is also a nesting site for sea turtles. Venezuela has a scientific base there.
- Las Aves Archipelago: Another group of islands with beautiful reefs and clear waters.
- La Blanquilla Island: This island is known for its white sands and clear blue waters. It is a peaceful place often visited by boats.
Nature and Wildlife
The islands of the Federal Dependencies are home to amazing nature. The waters around them are full of marine life. You can find colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The coral reefs are like underwater cities, providing homes for many different creatures. Many types of seabirds also live and nest on these islands. Protecting this natural beauty is very important.
Economy and Activities
The main activities in the Federal Dependencies are fishing and tourism. Local fishermen catch various types of fish and seafood. Tourism is growing, especially in places like Los Roques. Visitors come to enjoy the beaches, water sports, and the peaceful island life. These activities help the people who live on the islands.
Images for kids
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The Dutch settled in La Tortuga in 1605 until they were again evicted by the Spanish in 1631.
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Map showing the maritime border treaties between Venezuela and the US, France, the Netherlands, Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago, which set part of the borders of the Federal Dependencies.
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The Simón Bolívar Scientific-Military Base on the Aves Island established in 1978
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Cayo de Agua, Los Roques Archipelago
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Reefs in the Dos Mosquises Islands
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La Blanquilla is one of the largest islands in the Federal Dependencies
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Mangroves in Federal Dependencies
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Gran Roque Island, One of the most visited islands of the Federal Dependencies
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Beaches of Las Aves Archipelago east of Bonaire and west of Los Roques
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Dolphins in Los Roques Archipelago National Park
See also
In Spanish: Dependencias federales de Venezuela para niños
