Pasochoa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pasochoa |
|
|---|---|
Pasochoa as seen from Machachi
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 4,200 m (13,800 ft) |
| Geography | |
 Pasochoa
Location in Ecuador
|
|
| Parent range | Andes |
Pasochoa is a fascinating extinct volcano in Ecuador. It stands tall at 4,200 meters (about 13,780 feet) in the Andes mountains. You can find it in the Guayllabamba river basin.
This mountain looks like a giant, half-circle bowl. That's because its original crater collapsed a very long time ago. About 100,000 years ago, a huge eruption happened. This powerful event destroyed the top and one side of the old volcano.
Contents
A Special Forest: Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge
The ancient eruptions of Pasochoa left behind something amazing: super fertile soil! This rich ground helped a beautiful forest grow. It became a lively home for many plants and animals.
Even though the soil was good, the land was bumpy and hard to reach. This meant people couldn't use it for big farms. Because of this, a special part of the original Andean forest survived.
Protecting Nature: The Refuge's Story
In 1996, this unique area became the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge. It's one of the few places where you can still see the original Andean forest. This forest is very important for nature.
For a while, an organization called Fundacion Natura helped manage the refuge. They taught people about protecting nature. They also supported scientists who wanted to study the area.
Now, the Ministry of Environment (Ministerio del Ambiente) takes care of the mountain. They continue to protect its amazing natural treasures.
Wildlife and Plants of Pasochoa
Pasochoa is bursting with life! It's home to many different animals. You might find pumas, which are wild cats, or clever foxes. Skunks also live here, along with many kinds of birds.
The mountain also has a wonderful collection of plants. This rich variety of life makes Pasochoa a truly special place. It's a great example of how nature can thrive.
Visiting Pasochoa Today
Today, Pasochoa is a popular spot for visitors. People love to explore its trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's a fantastic place to connect with nature. You can see the unique forest and maybe even spot some wildlife.
See also
- List of volcanoes in Ecuador
