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Nela (river) facts for kids

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Nela
Arch carved by the Nela River, Puentedey, Orbaneja del Castillo, Province of Burgos, Spain.jpg
A natural arch carved by the Nela River in Puentedey, Burgos Province
Nela (rivière).png
Country Spain
Physical characteristics
Main source Montes del Somo, Merindad de Valdeporres
ca 1,200 m (3,900 ft)
River mouth Ebro River
Length 75 km (47 mi)
Basin features
Progression EbroMediterranean Sea
Basin size 1,081.20 km2 (417.45 sq mi)

The Nela River is a river in northeastern Castile-Leon, Spain. It is one of the many rivers that flow into the Ebro River, which is a very important river in Spain. The Nela River is about 75 kilometers (47 miles) long. It drains water from an area of about 1,081 square kilometers (417 square miles). This area is called its watershed.

Where the Nela River Starts and Ends

The Nela River begins in the Montes del Somo hills. These hills are near a place called Merindad de Valdeporres. The hills are made of a type of rock called karst, which means they have many caves and underground water paths.

After flowing for many kilometers, the Nela River joins the Ebro River. This happens near a town called Trespaderne.

How the Nela River is Used

The Nela River is very important for the people living nearby. A lot of its water is moved to other places.

Water for Cities and Farms

Most of the Nela's water is sent through a system called the Trasvase Cerneja-Ordunte. This system helps to supply drinking water to the big city of Bilbao. The river's water is also used to water crops on farms. This is called irrigation.

Fish Farms and Power Plants

Along the Nela River, you can find special farms where fish are raised. These are located in places like Busnela and Pedrosa de Valdeporres.

There is also a power plant in Nofuentes. This plant is called a hydroelectric complex. It uses the flowing water of the Nela River to create electricity.

Animals Living in the Nela River

The Nela River is home to many different kinds of animals. Some of the most common animals found in its waters include:

  • The amphibian called Discoglossus galganoi. Amphibians are animals that can live both in water and on land.
  • A type of fish known as Chondrostoma toxostoma.
  • A snail called Elona quimperiana.

These animals are an important part of the river's ecosystem.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Río Nela para niños

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