Question
Here is the question : WHAT IS THE ONLY TROPICAL RAINFOREST IN THE U.S. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Osceola
- Hau’ula
- Mokuleia
- El Yunque
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
The only tropical rainforest that is protected by the United States under the auspices of the National Forest System is El Yunque National Forest, which is situated in the north-eastern region of Puerto Rico. Despite the fact that it is just about 29,000 acres in size, it is one of the most biologically varied forests in the system and is home to a wide range of endemic species of both plants and animals.
El Yunque National Forest, located in northeastern Puerto Rico, is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. With an area of approximately 29,000 acres, El Yunque is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
The forest is named after the indigenous Taíno word for “white lands,” in reference to the clouds that often cover the mountaintops. El Yunque sits atop the Luquillo Mountain Range, with its highest peak, El Toro, reaching 3,533 feet above sea level.
The rainforest’s unique climate, with an average temperature of 80°F and an average rainfall of 200 inches per year, creates a lush and vibrant ecosystem. The forest is home to over 240 species of trees, including the Puerto Rican palm and the tabonuco, a tree that is essential to the survival of the endangered Puerto Rican parrot.
El Yunque is also home to a wide variety of animal species, including the coqui frog, the Puerto Rican boa, and the Puerto Rican emerald hummingbird. The forest is also home to several species of bats, including the rare and endangered Puerto Rican flower bat.
El Yunque has a rich cultural history. The forest has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and was later used by Spanish colonizers for mining and agriculture. In the 19th century, the forest was declared a protected reserve by the Spanish government, and it was later designated as a national forest in 1903.
El Yunque is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The forest offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas, making it a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also learn about the forest’s ecology and cultural history at the El Portal Rainforest Center, which features exhibits and interactive displays.
El Yunque faces several threats, including climate change, pollution, and invasive species. The forest is also vulnerable to hurricanes, which can cause significant damage to the ecosystem.
Efforts are underway to protect and preserve El Yunque for future generations. The forest is managed by the United States Forest Service, which works to maintain the ecosystem’s health and biodiversity. Additionally, community organizations and local residents are working to raise awareness about the importance of the rainforest and the need to protect it.
El Yunque National Forest is a unique and valuable part of the United States National Forest System. Its rich ecological and cultural history, combined with its breathtaking beauty, make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. However, it is important to recognize the threats that El Yunque faces and to take action to protect this essential ecosystem for generations to come.